Clarke seeks new year lift

DARREN CLARKE will look to get his year off to a positive start at the Joburg Open today — even though he is on a different continent to where he expected to be.

The 39-year-old had been named in Seve Ballesteros’ European team to play Asia in the Royal Trophy in Bangkok, due to start tomorrow.

However, the death of the king of Thailand’s sister last week meant the event was postponed as a mark of respect.