Paul Lawrie is banking on a third Commercial Bank Qatar Masters success that would lead to a third Ryder Cup cap.

Twice before in his career Lawrie’s started a New Year with victory in Doha and each of those years he’s won for a second time leading to European Ryder Cup selection.

Paul Lawrie looking to bank a third Commercial Bank Qatar Mastelrs and qualify for a third Ryder Cup. (Photo – Eoin Clarke/www.golffile.ie)

In 1999 Lawrie followed fellow Scot Andy Coltart in capturing the Qatar Masters and then went onto to win The Open to seal his play in what was a haplessly led Mark James team.

Two years ago, Lawrie tamed a desert Shamil in a reduced 54-hole event to win for a second time in the Qatari capital.

Later that year the Aberdonian cemented his place in Jose Maria Olazabal’s side winning the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles.

On both occasions it’s the only time Lawrie has won twice in a single season since turning pro in 1986.

“It’s always nice coming back here and seeing two photographs of myself on the wall in the clubhouse,” said Lawrie.

“Of course, when you win twice out here like I have, you have got to like the golf course and it’s a course I do feel very comfortable competing on.

“But then having won here twice before is not a guarantee you are going to do any good but it is such a nice feeling coming back every year as I have.

“Dave Kenny, my caddy and I, were talking about the shots we played in winning two years ago so it’s all good memories.  Nothing bad.”

And after missing the halfway cut last week in Abu Dhabi, Lawrie’s hopeful of playing all four rounds this week.

“It was a pity I had the weekend off as I had played well at Saadiyat Island on the Monday before in a company day for my sponsors Saltire Energy and hit the ball well in the pro-am,” he said.

Lawrie is among just seven Scots in the 142-player field including Jamie McLeary making his debut in the event.