Sam Torrance was today expected to confirm that he does not want to continue as European Ryder Cup captain - despite his stunning success at The Belfry. Regardless of all the praise heaped on Torrance by his team last night after their 15 1/2-12 1/2 victory over America, it is likely to be either Nick Faldo or Bernhard Langer who will be in charge in two years' time.
Tony Jacklin was captain four times and Bernhard Gallacher three, but since then Seve Ballesteros and Mark James have stood down after one match and that now appears the trend. Torrance, inspirational on his return to the course where he holed the winning putt 17 years ago, could not have been prouder last night as he led his side through a bedroom and back onto the roof where the 1985 team also sprayed champagne over a cheering crowd.
And the 49-year-old Scot wanted all the credit to go to the 12 players who added another dramatic chapter to what has become one of sport's most thrilling contests. Torrance enthused: "What a team. I just led them to the water and they drank copious amounts. Fantastic. Apart from my marriage and the birth of my children, without doubt this is the proudest moment of my life."
Filed by Shane Murray
