LYTHAM ST. ANNES, England (AP) — There’s been a late change in the British Open field.
The R&A announced Thursday shortly after the start of play that Russ Cochran has withdrawn and will be replaced by first alternate Michael Thompson. Matteo Manassero moves up to become the next player in, should another player drop out before his opening tee time.
No reason was given for Cochran’s withdrawal.
Ben Crane had been the first alternate, but his name was removed from the list Wednesday in a confusing move. The R&A said the American pulled out because he was at his Oregon home and couldn’t get to Royal Lytham & St. Annes on time. Crane insisted that he was still looking for ways to get to England, but it became a moot point.
