GURGAON, India (AP)—Marcel Siem of Germany birdied the ninth Thursday on his way to shooting an 8-under 64 to take a one-stroke lead on the first day of the $2.1 million Avantha Masters tournament.

Chan Yih-shin of Taiwan, who won his first career title in December at the King’s Cup, is one stroke back after shooting a birdie on the par 5 18th at the DLF Golf and Country Club.

“I can’t remember the last time that I shot 64,” Siem said. “It must be at least three years ago so I am pretty happy with that. It’s definitely my best round for a few years.”

Five players, including Thailand’s Thaworn Wiratchant, are tied for third at five-under 67.

China’s Liang Wen-chong, trying to reclaim his place as Asia’s top-ranked player, finished the day four strokes back and tied for 10th.

Former European Ryder Cup player Darren Clarke shot 71, while India’s Jeev Milkha Singh had a 72 with David Howell two more shots back.

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