Shane Lowry: It’s funny, the Claret Jug has just become part of the furniture at home

The 34-year-old is now bracing himself for the moment when he hands it back to the R&A and begins his bid to follow close friend Pádraig Harrington in winning back-to-back Open titles

Shane Lowry is seeking a second Irish Open title at Mount Juliet (Brian Lawless/PA)

Open champion Shane Lowry admits the Claret Jug has become part of the furniture in his house, but will reluctantly return it in spotless condition before his belated title defence at Royal St George’s.

Lowry has had the famous trophy in his possession ever since he cruised to a six-shot victory at Royal Portrush in 2019, with last year’s Open the only one of the four majors not to take place due to the coronavirus pandemic.