Wednesday 17 September 2014 13:44, UK
Sir Nick Faldo has described Ian Poulter as the “magic man” of the last three Ryder Cup contests ahead of this year’s edition at Gleneagles.
Faldo attracted criticism for awarding Poulter a captain’s pick in 2008, but the doubters were soon silenced as he won two of his three matches with Rose and a fourballs point alongside Graeme McDowell before beating Steve Stricker in his singles.
Poulter has since been the driving force for Europe over the last two contests, producing a series of memorable performances while injecting invaluable confidence and enthusiasm into the team room.
His display late on the second day at Medinah two years ago was little short of spectacular, making birdies at the last five holes as he partnered Rory McIlroy to a priceless 1up win over Jason Dufner and Zach Johnson.
His outburst of emotion after sinking the winning putt in the final match of the day reinvigorated his team-mates, who responded with a historic comeback in Sunday’s singles that retained the trophy against all odds.
Poulter’s energy and competitive spirit convinced Faldo to pick him along with Paul Casey for the contest at Valhalla, while his natural chemistry with Rose further justified his selection.
Six years on, Faldo remains dismayed at the mostly-negative reaction to his decision to take Poulter to Kentucky, insisting he was an obvious choice.
“It was amazing, I picked a guy ranked 22nd in the world and who finished second at the Open Championship,” said Faldo. “My two picks won five points and the rest of the team won six and a half.
“It wasn’t that difficult to pick him. He was the world No 22, he was playing alright, and he showed me a lot when he holed a really good putt at the last in the Open to ensure second place.
“I knew he was fiery and feisty and he was best mates with Justin Rose, but it was almost too obvious to put them together.
“I was thinking during the week who I could pair them with, but then I thought: ‘Well that’s daft’. They both played great in practice, so I told them on the Wednesday that they would be playing together, and their eyes lit up.
“That was one of the highlights of my week, a really cool moment. Why was I fighting to find them a partner when they’re best mates and playing great? I stuck them together and off they went.
“And look what he’s done since. Poulter has been the magic man of the last three Ryder Cups.”
Thursday sees the launch of our Sky Sports Ryder Cup channel as the countdown to Gleneagles continues.
