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Tiger partners Stricker in first practice

Tiger Woods was given a warm welcome upon his arrival in Wales © Getty Images

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Stay tuned to ESPN throughout the week for live coverage, news, views and reaction from the Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor

Corey Pavin sent out Tiger Woods alongside Steve Stricker as the USA team got their first taste of the Celtic Manor course ahead of the Ryder Cup.

Pavin has kept his cards close to his chest with regard to his pairings for the opening foursomes and fourballs on Friday, with the USA captain forced to field numerous questions about the role Woods will play.

The world No. 1 has struggled for form this season and had to rely on a captain's pick, but is still expected to play a prominent part this weekend. Woods has made it clear he wants to play in all five games and his potential partner has been a topic of debate.

His record in Ryder Cups does not tally with his standing in the game, but he struck up a fine rapport with Stricker at last year's Presidents Cup and they may get the chance to renew acquaintances on Friday.

Pavin may well switch things round over the next couple of days, but sending out Woods alongside Stricker in the first practice round could be interpreted as him leaning towards the pair playing together on Friday.

Woods will be in the spotlight all week and USA vice-captain Tom Lehman feels he has the mental capacity to cope with a partisan crowd.

"The guys in our team, one of the mindsets we were looking for is those who can say they are going take a crowd that is very vocal and partisan and try to prove to them what they are capable of and shut them up," Lehman said. "Some personalities are very good at that and the team that we have, with Tiger leading the way, are like that."

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