11/1 Rose ready for Bay Hill and Augusta test

Justin Rose makes his return to action in the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, but admits he also has one eye on the Masters which begins next month (11/1 Arnold Palmer outright).

The world number two has taken a month off from the game following a hectic schedule but says he is now ready to line up as part of a very strong field in the prestigious PGA Tour event.

“I’ve had four weeks off at home putting some gas back in the tank,” the 38-year-old said after practicing at the Orlando course on Wednesday.

Rose (12/1 Masters outright) will be hoping to be in contention this week as he realises he needs to start hitting top form with the first major of the year just around the corner.

“(The Masters) is on the mind for sure. It’s about (trying) to keep your game fresh and sharp to peak there,” Rose added

“It’s really important to be in contention once or twice heading into the Masters.”

Six of the world’s top 10 will help make up the field at Bay Hill, including Rory McIlroy, who is priced at 6/1 this week and like Rose also has one eye on Augusta National.

The Northern Irishman will be targeting victory this week but is also using the time to prepare for the Masters.

“I’ve been messing around with a 64-degree lob wedge as I think that could be beneficial around (Augusta),” McIlroy said.

“I’ve been making sure I get my driver turning over (right-to-left) as that’s something I’ve struggled with the last couple of years at the Masters.”

Odds subject to change