Mukesh thus took his total to nine-under-135. The Delhi duo of Shamim Khan and Rashid Khan were tied second.
Mukesh (68-67), the winner at PGTI's last event in Chandigarh, climbed from overnight tied fourth into the sole lead, thanks to a sublime 67. He sank a 10 feet putt for his first birdie of the day on the second hole and then followed it up with a birdie putt from five feet on the fourth.
"I hit it really close today, having landed it within seven feet on as many as four occasions for birdies. I also grabbed my opportunity on the par-5 14th. I continue to be in good form with the putter. It's going to be a low-scoring week since there is not much rough on the course. Therefore, a score of nine-under at the halfway stage gives me a very good chance," said Mukesh.
Bangalore's Chikkarangappa S and Greater Noida's Mandeo Singh Pathania are in tied fourth at seven-under-137.
The cut was declared at one-over 145. Fifty-one professionals and one amateur made the cut.
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