Three early qualifiers for The Open

Matt Jones not only won the Australian Open at the weekend, but also secured himself a place for the 145th Open Championship, which will be played at Royal Troon in July 2016.

Rod Pampling and Nick Cullen, who were the three highest finishers at the Australian Open who were not already exempt, will also join him.

“It’s one major I would love to win, it’s one major that I think suits my golf game the best," Jones told reporters. "I’m absolutely ecstatic to get back to The Open.”

Jones finished first, Pampling fourth and Cullen tied for fifth. Cullen tied with fellow Australian Lincoln Tighe, but secured the qualifying place thanks to his higher position in the Official World Golf Ranking - 379 to 1,022.

Rod Pampling, who shot a course record 61 on the final day, having been on the rums the night before, said:

“I’m delighted to get back there. Obviously it’s where the game started. The results haven’t shown it, but I really enjoy playing The Open. Hopefully this year, maybe I will work it out and who knows what we can do. It’s certainly awesome to be getting back into The Open again.”

Cullen also shared his excitement via Instagram:

To read more about Rod Pampling's rum exploits just click here.