Friday 14 October 2016 14:18, UK
Ian Poulter has apologised for not teeing-up in this week's British Masters at The Grove.
The 40-year-old Englishman has described his appearance at the on-going Macau Open, instead of the Masters, as a needs must situation, as he battles to retain his playing rights on the PGA Tour.
Following a 20-week absence because of injury, Poulter has taken up a medical exemption in a bid to earn enough money, as well as FedEx Cup points, to stay on the American-based tour in 2017.
Speaking on Friday at Macau Country Club, Poulter said he opted to play on the Asian Tour this week, so he could acclimatise himself ahead of the forthcoming CIMB Classic which forms part of the PGA Tour.
Poulter stressed: "I have a limited amount of time to regain my status on the PGA Tour. I've only got 10 events.
"That first event is in Malaysia, next week, and I want to be on a similar time zone, so I can play in that event and be as fresh as possible.
"I wanted to be in the British Masters. Hosting it last year at Woburn was a huge thrill and honour for me.
"It's great to be playing again after four-and a half months, and I just wish I could be with you guys at The Grove."
After 36 holes in Macau, Poulter is three strokes off the pace following rounds of 64 and 73.
Poulter, who was the joint overnight leader, failed to play the par fives as he had done on Thursday when he birdied all three of them.
On Friday, he was five strokes worse on this trio of holes, which included a double-bogey seven at the 12th. He hit just six of 13 fairways to slip into a tie for 11th.
Five players share the lead at the half-way stage, including India's Anirban Lahiri.
I wanted to be in the British Masters. Hosting it last year at Woburn was a huge thrill.
Poulter is teeing-up this week for the first time since May, due to a right foot problem with an arthritic joint, an injury which meant he also missed out on playing in the Ryder Cup.
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