Early exit shock for Clarke

Darren Clarke today made an embarrassing exit from the Mercedes-Benz South African Open here in East London.

Clarke, the European No2 and tournament favourite, didn't think things could get much worse after a first round of five over par 77.

But a 78 this afternoon left the Surrey-based Ulsterman on a total of 11 over par with no hope of beating the halfway cut.

Hennie Otto of South Africa leads in the clubhouse on nine under - 20 shots better than Clarke - after returning a second round 70. Greg Owen is the best placed Briton, with a 69 putting him just one off the pace with Roger Wessels, another South African.

Justin Rose carried on the good work after finishing second in last week's Alfred Dunhill Championship in Johannesburg.

The 20-year-old from Hampshire booked his weekend ticket with a 68 to stand four under par - just five off the lead.