Lawrie sacks Caddie Byrne

Paul Lawrie continued with Coach Adam Hunter as his caddie after dramatically sacking Irishman Paddy Byrne, his normal bagman.

Hunter was suddenly called into service ten minutes before Lawrie's second-round victory over American Billy Mayfair.

The Open champion did not give a reason for his decision when questioned later, saying only: "It's between us and I hope it remains that way."

Hunter added: "It's been coming some time -- it had to happen.''

Byrne became his caddie a year ago and in their second week together Lawrie won the Qatar Masters.

Hunter had to receive special permission from European tour chief referee John Paramor to be able to caddie.

Tour regulations state that "no full member of the PGA European Tour shall caddie for any competitor in a PGA European Tour approved tournament.''

Hunter won the 1995 Portuguese Open and although he has since retired from the circuit to concentrate on coaching, that gives him a tour membership category.

Victory over Calcavecchia now sees Lawrie clash with world No. 1 Tiger Woods in the quarterfinals.