Crunch time at Pebble Beach for Harrington

The first appearance by Tiger Woods in America this year has inevitably dominated the build-up to the AT&T National Pro-am at Pebble Beach this week.

But the importance of Padraig Harrington’s first appearance there since last September should not be overlooked.

Ireland’s three-time major winner almost certainly has to win on Sunday to book himself a place in the first world championship of the season. And failing to do that will be a big blow to his hopes of retaining his Ryder Cup spot later this year.

Harrington now stands 93rd in the world and has to climb back into the top 65 to make the trip to Tucson later this month. The 40-year-old Dubliner has turned to mental coach Dave Alred – the man who has linked up with world No 1 Luke Donald and rugby star Jonny Wilkinson – to help him. They worked together for the first time in Abu Dhabi a fortnight ago.

“I can’t wait to get to see him again. He has totally changed the way I will practice by giving it more meaning. The changes will have a huge effect for the rest of the year.”

The Yorkshire quartet of Simon Dyson, Richard Finch, Danny Willett and Danny Denison are all in action, alongside Rory McIlroy at the Dubai Desert Classic.