Ian Poulter to Make Wentworth Return at BMW PGA

Following his runner-up finish at The Players Championship, Ian Poulter has accepted an invitation from the European Tour to compete in next week's BMW PGA Championship. Making his first appearance at Wentworth since 2014, the colourful Englishman overcame uncertainty and tour card drama to roll back the years at TPC Sawgrass, illustrating that there is still life in the career of a 41-year-old who has continually defied the odds and proven the critics wrong. 

The 13-time winner on the circuit joins a strong field in Surrey, who are set to face an improved and enhanced West Course, which has undergone a number of chances since last year's edition of what has long been considered the tour's flagship event, although that status has been threatened by the big money tournaments elsewhere, particularly in the Middle East, with chief executive Keith Pelley raising that point 12 months ago. 

However, with the event set to witness the launch of the new and lucrative Rolex Series, the BMW PGA's position has once again been elevated, and it has the field to prove it. 

Going to a great week.. first time back playing Wentworth for a few years and never been so excited to do so. Home soil... ???????? https://t.co/oiHX3qoUkA

— Ian Poulter (@IanJamesPoulter) May 16, 2017

Four-time major champion Rory McIlroy is the headline attraction, but his participation is unclear following the results on an MRI scan that looked into bag problems the Northern Irishman had suffered last week in Florida. Open champion Henrik Stenson is ensured to be attending, as are the likes of Justin Rose, Tyrrell Hatton, Tommy Fleetwood, Lee Westwood, Matt Fitzpatrick, Martin Kaymer and Thomas Pieters.

The participation of Ian Poulter will only add something to proceedings, especially with his resurgent form, and he should be a popular follow for the huge crowds expected to descend upon the famous and historic venue.