After failing to qualify for the last two Majors of 2011, two-time Major winner David Kelly has suffered the ignominy of falling out of the illustrious “Top-Sixteen” of the tour rankings.

With the likes of Tour rookies Antony Dine, Matt Moore and Brendan Malone all forcing their way into the elite group, places are now becoming harder and harder to hold on to for the Tour’s bigger names.

However, with the shock news that Arran Squires, the most decorated golfer in the Tour’s history, now unfit to compete in the Sarazen Classic at Sundridge Park, Kelly has been handed an unexpected lifeline and a place in the Stableford Knockout 2012.

Lucky Seventeen: David Kelly

“It’s a chance I intend to take,” stated Kelly. “The likelihood is that I’ll be drawn against one of the big names, but whether it be Greatorex or Andrews, I’m convinced I’ve got enough game to progress to the quarter finals.” added Kelly.

The next alternate awaiting a place in the draw is Kevin Ibrahim, ranked 18th, but also struggling with a knee injury. “It’s yet another blow, but I haven’t given up hope just yet. I’ll have to see how things progress.”

With Waldine champion, Mark Sheldrick, having already withdrawn due to a forthcoming back operation, there may still be a chance for VCD Open champion, Steve Coatham, ranked 20th, to squeeze in at the back door.

Injury woes: Kevin Ibrahim