Injured Clarke withdraws from Irish Open

LONDON, May 15 (Reuters) Britain's Darren Clarke has withdrawn from this week's Irish Open as he had failed to recover from a hamstring injury.

''It is with great reluctance... that I have to withdraw from this week's Irish Open,'' Clarke said in a statement.

MRI scans revealed that Clarke has a problem with his right hamstring.

''To say I'm disappointed is putting it mildly,'' added Clarke.

''I so wanted to compete for Ireland's national title so this is another blow on top of many recent frustrations.

''If I had played this week, I would have risked further damage and probably turned it into a long-term injury.

''Now I have the chance of being fit to return at Wentworth next week.'' Reuters TB VV2339