Duo shares LPGA Shanghai lead on wet return to China

World number 186 Wichanee Meechai fired a six-under-par 66 to share the lead with Sweden's Maja Stark after the first round of the LPGA Shanghai on Thursday.

Danielle Kang, who won the $2.1 million event the previous times it was held, in 2018 and 2019, shot a bogey-free 68 for a share of third.

Another American, world number one Lilia Vu, struggled to par for a share of 37th at Qizhong Garden Golf Club, where it was grey for much of the day and the heavens opened in the mid-afternoon.

World number two and home favourite Yin Ruoning carded a 71 for a share of 27th.

The 30-year-old Wichanee of Thailand shot two eagles and four birdies, offset by two bogeys, to take a surprise two-shot lead with Stark.

Wichanee has never won on the LPGA Tour but said she felt at home in Shanghai having played the course before and been on China's golf tour.

But she only arrived in Shanghai on Tuesday and said: "I haven't practised actually, but it just feels like home. Feel like I'm used to the vibe."

The 42nd-ranked Stark was more consistent with six birdies and no bogeys.

Ten players were in a tie for third, including Kang and the Thai duo of Pavarisa Yoktuan and Jasmine Suwannapura.