Greg Norman has accepted an invitation to play in the Smurfit European Open at the K Club from July 4th to 7th. The two-time British Open champion was due in Ireland anyway, having agreed to an exhibition match against Padraig Harrington at Doonbeg golf course, his own creation in the dune lands of the County Clare, on July 8th. The following day America take on Britain and Ireland in the Palmer Cup for collegiate golfers at Doonbeg, writes John O'Sullivan

The 47-year-old Australian is one of the many past champions - he won in 1986 - who will join title holder Darren Clarke. Also confirmed as entrants are Gordon Brand Jnr, David Gilford, Mathias Gronberg, Bernhard Langer, Sandy Lyle, Manuel Pinero, Peter Senior, Paul Way, Lee Westwood and Ian Woosnam.

The Great White Shark joined the European tour in 1977 and spent several seasons in Europe, winning the Volvo Order of Merit in 1982. He won his two British Opens at Turnberry (1986) and Royal St George's (1993). He has played 147 events on the European Tour international schedule with 70 top-10 finishes in addition to his 14 victories.

His last success came in the 1994 Johnnie Walker Asian Classic and in 2000 he was accorded honorary life membership of the European Tour in recognition of his contribution to golf on this side of the Atlantic.