McIlroy’s brilliance was broken up with a bizarre incident in a captivating round at Royal Portrush, with Scottie Scheffler surging clear by four shots (-14) in pursuit of the Claret Jug

The early wave has the advantage. Rain has arrived at Royal Portrush, just as World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler hits the course. It's spotty around the course — it's pouring at 18, where Rory McIlroy is trying to finish — but clearly those already in the clubhouse — including leader Brian Harman — are the beneficiaries.

Rory McIlroy chases a major victory in Northern Ireland and Scottie Scheffler is the pre-tournament favourite at Royal Portrush; Xander Schauffele is defending champion and Tommy Fleetwood is among the English hopes;