Colsaerts and John share lead at Alfred Dunhill Links

Nicolas Colsaerts and Cameron John shared the lead at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship after Friday's second round.

Former European Ryder Cup star Colsaerts carded a 65 at Carnoustie to reach 14 under par, level with John after the Australian's 68 at St Andrews.

The 41-year-old Colsaerts came into the tournament ranked 695th and edging closer to concentrating on television commentary rather than competing.

"The stage I'm at, the way I see this profession and my career, I'm just happy to be here," Colsaerts said after a round including eight birdies.

John enjoyed his breakthrough professional victory in March, but began his seventh DP World Tour event at 1 007th in the world rankings.

"It's just fun," the 23-year-old said of links courses. "You don't get it a lot back home, maybe the odd course that plays similar but nothing quite the same.

"Walking up 18 at St Andrews it's always pretty special, so just remember it."

FICHARDT ONE SHOT OFF THE LEAD

South Africa's Darren Fichardt, the overnight leader, followed his 61 at Kingsbarns with a 70 at St Andrews to lie one shot off the lead alongside Scotland's David Law, who carded a 67 on the Old Course.

Rory McIlroy carded a second consecutive 69 to reach six under par and will need a low round at St Andrews on Saturday to get back into contention.

The event sees the teams of one professional and one amateur play one round each at St Andrews, Carnoustie and Kingsbarns before those who survive the 54-hole cut play Sunday's final round at St Andrews.