Two-time Masters champion American Bubba Watson led the first round of the Shenzhen International on Thursday after scoring six under par.

The clubhouse leader, ranked No.22 in the world, clinched an early lead by shooting an eagle and five birdies before storms in the area suspended play for two hours in the afternoon. Play was halted for the night shortly before 7 pm, meaning 56 players will complete their first round early Friday morning before the second round begins.

The 38-year-old is competing against other star players including South African duo Haydn Porteous and Dean Burmester, Germany's Max Kieffer, Thailand's Thongchai Jaidee and France's Grégory Bourdy.