Golf Events / Editor / 26 April 2007 /

Phil Mickleson will still take his place in the field for the EDS Byron Nelson Championship despite concerns over a USPGA Tour rule

The three-time Major winner missed Wednesday's pro-am tournament at the TPC Four Seasons Resort in Irving, Texas because of a flight problem.

Mickelson had planned to fly into Texas in his private jet late Tuesday night from Arkansas, but the Dallas Love Field airport was closed due to severe thunderstorms.

Rules state that a player missing a pro-am event should be automatically disqualified for the upcoming event, except for 'extenuating circumstances'.

More of a concern though for backers of the left-hander, will be the fact that Mickelson has not been able to play a practice round ahead of this week's tournament.

The 1996 winner is the second favourite (12) to claim the $1.13million winner's cheque on Sunday, with Vijay Singh (11.5) currently heading the winner's market.

Betfair punters are expecting a big four days from Luke Donald, with the Englishman trading at 18 while Sergio Garcia can be backed at 21. Defending champion Brett Wetterich is available at 50 to repeat his 2006 success.

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