Alvaro Quiros hit comfortably the round of the week at the Shenzhen International, a nine under par 63 to reach eight under overall before the frontrunners began their final rounds.

Starting brilliantly with five straight birdies and a front nine of 29, the Spaniard was in contention for the European Tour’s first round of 59. Bogeys on the 12th and last holes were the only blemishes of a round that featured a sensational 11 birdies. 

“A 63 in any golf course in the world is a good score,” Quiros reflected.

Quiros, six times a European Tour winner, sat four shots behind leader Kiradech Aphibarnrat and two back from Peter Uihlein, who were yet to tee off when the Spaniard completed his round.