Persistent electrical storms throughout much of today (Saturday) has forced Barclays Singapore Open officials to reduce the $US 6m event to 54 holes.

European Tour's Mike Stewart indicating 2011 Barclays Singapore Open is being reduced to 54 holes. (Photo www.golfbytourmiss.com)

Tournament Director, Mike Stewart made the announcement after play had been called for the day at 4.45pm local time.

It is the second time since 2006 that the event has been reduced to 54 holes because of the weather.

Earlier on Saturday, less than 30 players among the 80 to have made the halfway cut, managed to commence their third round when the siren sounded at 11.45am to halt play.

Unfortunately, the presence of electrical storm cells in the Singapore region meant the players never returned to the course.

Prior to officially halting play Stewart indicated some 52mm of rain had fallen on the Sentosa Resort course.

The third round will resume at 7.30am local time Sunday and should be concluded around 2pm.

However Steward further indicated that if there is further downpours there is the opportunity to extend play right up to darkness.

And Steward indicated that there is also the option of completing the event on Monday, if necessary.

This is despite the fact a number of players, including Phil Mickelson and Ernie Els are heading to Melbourne for next week’s Presidents Cup.

 Spain’s Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano will take a three shot lead at 15-under par into the third and final round.

England’s James Morrison and Italy’s Edoardo Molinari are next best on 12-under par.

Of the players to commence their third round four managed to play three holes before the stoppage.