Francesco Molinari

Rose takes on the role for the first time, while Ryder Cup team-mate Molinari captained Continental Europe to victory two years ago

Molinari was seven over par on the ninth tee but holed his seven-iron tee shot for an eagle.

The trio head into Sunday’s final round on 13 under par with a three-strong group one shot back.

The Italian has not had a top-three finish in a strokeplay event since March 2019.

The Italian will defend his title at Royal Portrush

Royal Portrush will host Northern Ireland’s first Open Championship since 1951

Molinari is hoping to continue his impressive Major form

Irishman targets fifth Major Championship

Molinari held a two-shot lead with seven holes to play but had to settle for a share of fifth place

Molinari has second Major title in his sights

Woods has not tasted victory at Augusta National since 2005

Threat of thunderstorms means history will be made on Sunday

Molinari in the Major mix at The Masters

Molinari fired a second-round 67

Molinari and Poulter leading European challenge

Molinari hopes recent success will inspire next generation of Italian players

The Italian Ryder Cup star will defend his Open title at Royal Portrush in July

To absolutely nobody’s surprise, Francesco Molinari was last week named the European Tour’s Golfer of the Year…

Not even Seve and Ollie won four matches from four as a Ryder Cup partnership, as extraordinary as they were.