International Series Vietnam: Japan’s Kanaya chasing second title, as Hong Kong’s Cheung keeps leaders in sights

Oman winner Takumi Kanaya opens up 3-shot lead at KN Golf Links after solid 6-under 66 in third round

Hong Kong’s Matthew Cheung cards 5-under 67 to move to 12 under and keep top 10 finish in his sights

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Takumi Kanaya has opened up a three-shot lead going into Sunday’s final round of the International Series Vietman. Photo: Asian Tour

Published: 6:46pm, 15 Apr 2023

Takumi Kanaya put himself in position to win an International Series event for the second time this season, firing a solid six-under 66 in Vietnam on Saturday.

The Japanese golfer moved to 17-under for the tournament, and opened up a three-shot lead over nearest challengers Kevin Yuan (66) and overnight leader Jazz Janewattananond (71).

Zimbabwe’s Kieran Vincent sits alone in fourth at 13-under, while Hong Kong’s Matthew Cheung and Chinese amateur Ding Wenyi are among a group of four a shot further back.

Cheung carded a five-under 67, the highlights of which were two lengthy putts, for an eagle at the par-5 sixth, and for birdie at the par-3 16th at KN Golf Links.

A top 10 finish this week would boost Cheung’s chances of playing in more tournaments as the year progresses, with all those who earned an Asian Tour card at Q-School in January being re-ranked after this event ends.

Matthew Cheung shares a smile with wife Kaitlin, who is caddying for him this week at the International Series Vietnam. Photo: Asian Tour

Kanaya, meanwhile, is one round from adding to the International Series Oman title he picked up in February.