Westwood's patience and ankle both tested

But the change in weather which led to a temporary suspension of play meant at six under par the world No 3 is right in the hunt.

With afternoon winds approaching gusts of 40 miles per hour, scores began to soar.

"It was pretty easy for the first six or seven holes but the wind picked up on the back nine and it is tricky with a crosswind to get the ball close to the hole," said Westwood. "I made 17 pars and one birdie and didn't get as much out of my round as I should have – as was the case on Thursday. Then I shot a 67 and it should have been a 64 and (yesterday) I shot 71 and it should have been a 66.

"I felt I hit quite a lot of good putts which didn't go in. It tests your patience.

"I three-putted 18 for the second successive day but you learn to get used to those things as a golfer because they happen quite a lot."

Westwood reported no new problems with his calf injury, which he has been advised to rest but has opted to play on because he does not want to miss his home major.

"As the day goes on, walking six or seven miles, my ankle swells up," he added.

"I've got a bit of time to rest and get some ice on it and it should be all right."