Shane Lowry holds joint-lead in Dubai but Rory McIlroy challenge falters

Shane Lowry of Ireland plays his tee shot on the 18th hole. Pic: Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images

Shane Lowry and Nacho Elvira negotiated windy conditions to climb to the top of the leaderboard as overnight leader Rory McIlroy struggled during the second round at the Dubai Invitational.

Lowry is looking for his first DP World Tour title since winning the 2022 BMW PGA Championship, and he showed his quality with his irons and nerveless putting to overhaul playing partner McIlroy.