India to stage the 2008 Johnnie Walker Classic

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India will stage next year's edition of the Johnnie Walker Classic, organisers said on Tuesday.

Former world number one Vijay Singh will be in the field for the $2.5 million event, jointly sanctioned by European, Asian and Australasian Tours.

The Arnold Palmer-designed DLF Golf and Country Club course near New Delhi will host the event from Feb. 28.

Launched in 1990, the Johnnie Walker Classic has been played in seven countries so far. South Africa's Anton Haig won last year's event in Phuket, Thailand, claiming his maiden European Tour title.

Vijay Singh, the former U.S. Masters and U.S. PGA champion, has previously played a Skins event at the course and said he was delighted to be making a return.

"I began my professional career in Asia, so I'm excited to be returning to my old stamping ground," he said in a statement.

"I particularly enjoy playing in the Johnnie Walker Classic as it always boasts a top field of international players."

The event closely follows the inaugural $2.5 million Indian Masters European Tour event to be held in New Delhi from Feb. 7.

India, thanks to its booming economy and fast-improving

players, is becoming an attractive destination for organisers of major tournaments.