Gourlay targets return to top

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David Gourlay is determined to reclaim his mantle as the world's top player at this year's Bupa Care Homes open.

Gourlay was ranked number one in the world for five years before losing his spot this season to fellow Scot Alex Marshall.

And Gourlay, who won the tournament in 1998 and 2000, says Marshall will need to be on top form if he is to defend his position in the rankings.

"There's more pressure on Alex now he's number one, and there aren't many points in it," Gourlay told BBC Sport.

"Obviously I would like to get it back, and a couple of good wins here could secure it.

"Not much separates all the players here, and all you need is a little break to secure the win."

I'm happy with the way I've been playing David Gourlay

The 38-year-old was knocked out in the first round last year, but is confident that he can add to his two tournament victories at this year's event.

Gourlay is a master of the portable rink that travels to all the World Bowls Tour meetings, and believes his experience could be key in the later rounds.

"The rink is unique, it's not like a normal indoor bowling green and the more times you play on it the better you become," he said.

"For some reason I seem to enjoy the way the rink performs in this arena.

"Atmospheric conditions can affect the rink and I think it is better here than anywhere else.

"A lot of it is down to confidence and experience and dealing with the pressure."