Kolkata, Feb 3 (IANS): Upbeat after her maiden victory in the third leg of the Hero Women’s Professional Golf Tour, Kiran Matharu and Vani Kapoor will start as firm favourites in the fourth leg starting Wednesday.

Vani, who currently leads the Order Of Merit with total earnings of Rs.3,44,000, has been off-colour in the last two events and would be keen to return to winning ways in the three-day fourth leg at the par-70 Tollygunge Cub.

Vani and Englishwoman Kiran will face strong challenges from Amandeep Drall, Gauri Monga, Shweta Galande and Saaniya Sharma.

Amandeep has been impressive in her rookie year with total earnings of Rs.2,98,000 in three appearances. She will be eyeing the elusive win, which could significantly alter the money rankings.

Local players Smriti Mehra and Neha Tripathi have struggled with their form this season and will look for a turnaround at the event.

Smriti is placed third in the Hero Order of Merit with earnings of Rs.2,38,000 and will try to close the gap at the top of the table.

Sharmila Nicollet hasn’t been in the best of forms, but the Bengaluru golfer will be keen to make a mark in her second appearance this season.