The Sky Sports Golf presenter and Betway ambassador previews the event, which returns to the European Tour for the first time since 2008
The British Masters returns to the European Tour for the first time in seven years this week, with Ian Poulter playing host at Woburn Golf Club.
Originally a regular fixture on the schedule from its inception in 1972, this will be the first time the tournament has been staged since 2008.
Poulter’s Ryder Cup team-mates Luke Donald, Lee Westwood and Justin Rose will alternate hosting duties over the next three seasons at venues of their choice.
Westwood finished runner-up the last time the event was held, losing a thrilling play-off to Spaniard Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano at the Belfry.
He narrowly missed out on defending the title he won 12 months earlier, when he finished five shots clear of Poulter.
We all know Poulter (20/1 to win) is the ultimate showman and, despite lots of commitments on his time, I think he’ll love the attention this week.
Despite making his home in Florida, the Englishman is, of course, linked to Woburn and knows this layout better than most.
I expect a good week from Westwood (40/1), too.
I’m sure he’ll relish being back on home turf and obviously he is an integral part of this event moving forward.
Donald (28/1), meanwhile, has had plenty of success at home and will be looking to add the title to the three European Tour victories he has already achieved on British soil.
The former world No. 1 finished top of the pile at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth in 2011 and 2012 and triumphed at the Scottish Open at Castle Stuart Golf four years ago.
I also like the chances of Tommy Fleetwood (33/1).
The young Englishman is having a fantastic season – he’s currently 19th in the Race to Dubai and 62nd in the world rankings.
A big showing in front of passionate home support would only add to his burgeoning reputation.
Finally, I really hope Graeme McDowell (22/1) can continue his upturn in form.
It’s been a torrid season for GMac, but he’ll take a lot of heart from his top-20 finish in at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in Scotland last week.
He’ll be one of the star attractions on show this week and won’t be lacking in vocal support.
