The 33-year-old pro, a past Asian Tour champion, navigated gusty winds masterfully, carding four birdies before a closing bogey. This marks his second straight three-under round, highlighting his tee-to-green prowess. ‘The wind direction kept changing, but I adapted well,’ Joshi noted. ‘My ball striking felt great, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.’

First-day pacesetter Dhruv Sheoran (67-70) grabbed an early eagle and led by three through 12 holes, only to stumble with bogeys on 16 and 17, landing at five-under 137. Veteran Chikkarangappa S, with 14 PGTI wins, posted 70 for four-under 138 in third.

The field remains stacked: six players share fourth at two-under 140, including Viraj Madappa and Chandigarh’s young guns Brahsharpal Singh, Akshay Sharma, and Manjot Singh. A course alteration shortened the seventh hole to par-4, reducing par to 71 and testing strategies anew.

With 52 players making the cut at six-over 148, the weekend promises fireworks. Joshi’s lead sets the stage for a thrilling chase, as contenders eye the massive prize and glory in this high-stakes showdown.