Harrington Quits Practice Round With Wrist Pain

Open champion Padraig Harrington's much-anticipated fitness test on his injured wrist lasted just two shots at Royal Birkdale this morning.

The Irishman teed off from the 10th, having played the front nine yesterday, and hit a two iron and then a seven iron before aborting his practice round. Harrington said he felt pain in the wrist, which he injured on Saturday, with his approach to the green.

He was heard to tell caddie Ronan Flood, "That's it, we're finished for the day," and was then believed to have headed straight for treatment with Australian chiropractor Dale Richardson.

Harrington had earlier enjoyed a good session on the range and reported no problems with the wrist. Today's development raises questions over whether Harrington will be fit enough to defend the title he won in a play-off against Sergio Garcia at Carnoustie 12 months ago.