MUIRFIELD (UK): India's Aditi Ashok had a rough start, carding two-over 73, while compatriot Diksha Dagar was one-over through two holes in the opening round of the AI Women's Open here.
Aditi had three birdies against five bogeys at a course which has always been rather challenging.
Former Women's Open champion Hinako Shibuno set a rather imposing target at on day at six-under 65. Shibuno, who won her maiden major title at Woburn in 2019, had a great start with birdies on the first three holes and went on to card eight birdies in total in a six-under-par 65.
She was one clear of America's Jessica Korda (66), while Scotland's Louise Duncan was another shot back at 67.
Playing in the first group alongside former champion and local resident Catriona Matthew, Duncan recorded an eagle, four birdies and two bogeys to match her score from the opening round at Carnoustie 12 months ago, when she had finished 10th while still an amateur.
Two-time Solheim Cup captain Catriona Matthew struggled to a five-over 76, making double bogeys on the first and 10th and failing to make a single birdie.
England's Georgia Hall, who won the title at Royal Lytham in 2018, lies five shots off the pace following an opening 70.
