Day one digest: Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers

Everything you need to know from Royal Greens Golf and Country Club.

Horsey on the charge, Poulter shows off his sand skills and conditions favour early birdies.

Here is everything you need to know from day one at Royal Greens Golf and Country Club.

Horsey gallops down home strait

David Horsey described his own form coming into the week as “rubbish” but the Englishman looked in fine form as he turned in a two under 33. The best was yet to come, however, as he birdied seven of the back nine to lead after a nine under 61. “I didn't really feel like I missed many shots,” he said. “I holed a couple of nice, lengthy putts as well and it all adds up to 61.”

Gallacher bounces in the background

Stephen Gallacher had to endure a difficult year in 2020, but things are looking up in 2021 after he fired an eight under 62 to lie second. “It was just draw a line in the sand for 2020,” he said. “With everything that happened, the pandemic, my dad, losing friends, it was just one of those terrible years. I couldn't wait for 2021 to come really and get back to a bit of normal - back playing and back enjoying it.”

Poulter shows off short game skills

There aren't many better players out the sand than Ian Poulter...

Location, location, location

Speaking of sand...

Tough work for afternoon wave

Horsey and Gallacher both completed their rounds in the morning session, which might be just as well given the difference in scoring.