COMMENT: The boy from the 'Bool versus one of the modern greats

It's not that simple, but on Thursday morning, it will be just that.

The boy from Warrnambool - swiftly becoming a PGA TOUR favourite - and a Presidents Cup rookie against one of the greatest of all time and Thomas, an American starlet.

When International captain Ernie Els picked Leishman alongside Chilean Joaquin Niemann, there was still mystery as to who the Americans would choose in return.

Woods stunned the golfing fraternity - naming himself and world number five Justin Thomas.

In the scheme of things, it makes sense. Woods is the first playing captain in more than two decades and wants to watch his team play.

Leishman and Niemann versus Woods and Thomas has the earliest tee-time of 9.32am at Royal Melbourne, meaning he'll have plenty of time to catch his proteges.

From a south-west fan's perspective, this is a treat and a half.

Leishman has the opportunity to help his long-suffering International team to a vital start, which could put a major dent in the American side's aspirations early on.

To put it simply: This is a major moment in Warrnambool's sporting timeline.

The south-west produces its fair share of superstar athletes - but it's not often one has the opportunity to play a talent like Woods directly.

While Woods, a 15-time PGA TOUR major winner, has one of the strongest records in world golf, Leishman has a competitive edge.

He understands how the "severe" greens work at Royal Melbourne. The Americans have had two days of practice but nothing can beat local knowledge.

Niemann, a Presidents Cup rookie, will also benefit from that guidance. It became obvious Els would pair Leishman with a non-Australian in his press conference on Tuesday.

While some suggest Queenslander Cam Smith was a likely teammate, the former Brauer College student hinted his strong course knowledge would be utilised to help a player less familiar with Aussie conditions.

So it was.

As journalists we aren't barrackers by nature.

But as Warrnamboolians, we have a duty to get behind Leishman as he flies our flag on the international stage.

HOW IT WILL BE PLAYED: Four-ball, or better-ball, means teams of two players compete against another team of two. In this case, it's Leishman and Niemann versus Woods and Thomas. The format allows players to card the lowest score of the round. If Leishman shoots three on hole one and Niemann shoots four, three is carded.

On Friday, it will move to foursomes. This means teams of two alternate to hit the same golf ball. There are therefore two balls in play, instead of four.

WHEN: 9.32am on Thursday

WHERE: Royal Melbourne Golf Club

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