The South African carded an impressive 63 on Friday (7/3), moving to 11-under-par overall. Frenchman Adrien Saddier sits just one shot behind on 10-under-par after a solid round of 65, though a dropped shot at the last hole cost him a share of the lead.

Despite battling persistent pain from an ear infection that has even affected his sleep, Norris has played exceptional golf over the past two days.

“I picked it up on Tuesday afternoon and saw the doctor on Wednesday. They tried to flush it out, but it didn’t work, so they put me on antibiotics. It’s frustrating – I can’t hear anything out of my left ear.” 

“But somehow, it’s not affecting me on the course. As golfers, when we’re over the ball, we’re completely focused. It’s just annoying between shots because I can’t hear properly,” said Norris, who admitted he was initially worried about how the infection might affect his balance and swing.

“That was my biggest concern, but fortunately, it hasn’t impacted me at all.” It certainly didn’t seem to bother Norris on Friday, as he went bogey-free around the par-70 Houghton layout.

“The course is in fantastic condition, especially considering all the rain we’ve had over the past few days, and I’m really enjoying it.”

Adrien Saddier. Photo: Sunshine Tour

India’s Shubhankar Sharma, the 2017 Joburg Open champion, and Scotland’s Connor Syme are tied for third place on nine under par.

Sharma, in particular, is looking forward to the weekend at a tournament that holds special memories for him.

“Coming back to South Africa is always special. The Joburg Open was my first win and got me onto the DP World Tour. I still have fond memories of that victory – it was life-changing.”  

Norris now heads into the weekend chasing his third DP World Tour title –and his second in just under three months – following his victory at the Alfred Dunhill Championship in December.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg