Day suffers back injury in Austin

Just a fortnight away from the Masters, for which he is a hot favourite after winning last week's Arnold Palmer Invitational, Day showed signs of discomfort after finding the bunker from the 16th tee, and looked far from comfortable while seeing off Graeme McDowell at the WGC-Dell Match Play.

Jason Day in action at the WGC-Dell Match Play.

Fears over World No. 2 Jason Day's fitness were raised as he appeared to suffer a back injury while seeing off Graeme McDowell at the WGC-Dell Match Play.

Just a fortnight away from the Masters, for which he is a hot favourite after winning last week's Arnold Palmer Invitational, Day showed signs of discomfort after finding the bunker from the 16th tee, and looked far from comfortable as he later edged into the hazard.

Day, who has a history of back trouble, secured a 3&2 win over McDowell in his first tie of the weekend at the Austin Country Club, thanks in no small part to four birdies in five holes ahead of the turn, but his continued participation is in doubt.

Match Play champion in 2014, Day has been quoted as describing the pain as "searing" and he headed straight for the clubhouse after finishing his round.