The Golf Spiv calls the betting at the British Masters

Where does the value lies this week?

Words: The Golf Spiv Photography: Getty Images

Lee Westwood will be hosting the British Masters this week at Close House for one of the European Tour’s best events of the year. A star-studded field including Rory McIlroy and Sergio Garcia will all be taking part and one thing is certain, the crowds will be huge as the North East of England plays host. Predicting who will win is one thing but there are other more important questions to think about mainly, will Newcastle Brown Ale be served at the bar?

With the GolfPunk crew heading to Close House (sadly not me, I have the consolation prize of a free golf getaway to Valencia...it’s a hard life) to cover the event, I have been tasked once again with finding you the best value bets out there. McIlroy starts as the clear favourite on 8/1 with Sergio close behind him at 9/1. After that, the betting market is wide open. So here are five British players who may just take the title.

Matthew Fitzpatrick 20/1 Ladbrokes:

Fitzpatrick has not had what he would call a good season but last time out he proved that he is a still a winner. The European Masters champion has won the British Master before and hopefully, his latest win will give him some extra confidence going into Close House.

Lee Westwood 28/1 BetFred:

This week’s host enters following a third-place finish at the KLM Open. Westwood may be the host but he will also be gunning for victory at his home course. Local Knowledge and fresh from an excellent tournament could be a huge week for Westie.

Jordan Smith 60/1 Bet365:

Top 10 in a major, winner on the European Tour and a Spiv winner to boot. Smith is the real deal that is for sure. He is having a great season since graduating from the Challenge Tour. Has the ability to tear this course apart and at these odds is great value. Tipped him once before and won big.

Chris Paisley 100/1 MarathonBet:

Local knowledge could be massively beneficial for Paisley as he is one of Close House’s professionals. Throw into the mix his recent form and you have a wildcard that could challenge this week. His best finish on the European Tour this year has been his third-place finish in Denmark. He is knocking on the door that is for sure. A great Each Way here.

Marc Warren 100/1 Bet365:

Marc Warren might be a little inconsistent but when he’s good, he’s really good. Second in Portugal last week will have boosted his confidence no end. The Scot could shock here as he has nothing to lose and is off the radar. If he plays like he did in Portugal then he could walk away with the trophy.