McIlroy, Mickelson in foursome battle

Rory McIlroy has been paired with Andy Sullivan to take on Phil Mickelson and Rickie Fowler on a blockbuster opening day of the Ryder Cup.

Europe's Rory McIlroy.

Rory McIlroy has been paired with Andy Sullivan to take on Phil Mickelson and Rickie Fowler on a blockbuster opening day of the Ryder Cup.

The expected pairings — the United States' Jordan Spieth and Patrick Reed, and Europe's Justin Rose and Henrik Stenson — start Friday's foursomes at Hazeltine.

McIlroy will follow with Sullivan, up against Mickelson — at the centre of controversy already this week — and Fowler.

Mickelson has been involved in a war of words with former captain Hal Sutton over the team's performance at the 2004 Ryder Cup.

A team of Sergio Garcia and Martin Kaymer are taking on Jimmy Walker and Zach Johnson in the third match of the day.

The fourth foursome sees Dustin Johnson and Matt Kuchar face Lee Westwood and his surprise partner, Thomas Pieters.

Danny Willett has missed out for Europe following his brother's rant about USA fans.

Europe, who are three-time defending champions, have six Ryder Cup rookies in their team, but captain Darren Clarke has opted for early experience.

Of the six, only Sullivan and Pieters have been given a chance in the opening matches.