Rory in the zone at Bay Hill

Mcllroy made an eagle and six birdies in a seven-under 65

Rory McIlroy hits from the third in the first round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill.
Picture: John Raoux/AP

Rory McIlroy will take the Ryder Cup captaincy when he wants it but Graeme McDowell admitted at Bay Hill his decision not to put his hat in the ring this year could cost him his chance of leading the team one day.

The 42-year old finished the day in a familiar position in the Arnold Palmer Invitational, three strokes behind an impressive McIlroy, who made an eagle and six birdies in a seven-under 65 to lead by two strokes in the clubhouse from Americans Beau Hossler, Billy Horschel, and JJ Spaun.