Justin Thomas sits three shots off the lead after the opening round of the CIMB Classic in Malaysia.

The world number four, fresh from being the United States’ best performer at an otherwise disappointing Ryder Cup, posted a six-under-par 66 that was boosted considerably by a run of four birdies at his final five holes of the day.

Thomas knows what it takes to win at TPC Kuala Lumpur – he has done so in two of the last three years – and was delighted to be within touching distance of the lead once again, particularly as he feels he is yet to find his full range this week.

“Not having my best stuff and getting around here in six-under is huge,” Thomas said.

“I just didn’t take advantage of a couple opportunities and let a couple go, but kind of found something there those last five holes and was able to at least make a good round.”

American Bronson Burgoon currently sits at the top of the leaderboard on nine-under as he bounced back from an early bogey in emphatic style, recording eight birdies and an eagle at the par-five 18th.

Austin Cook is Burgoon’s nearest rival on eight-under, while Scott Piercy, Billy Horschel and C.T Pan are a further shot off the pace.

Thomas, who is priced at 4.00 to win the tournament for the third time, is one of eight players on six-under as he sits alongside the likes of Englishman Paul Casey and 2010 Open champion Louis Oosthuizen.