JUSTIN Rose has sacked his caddy, Mick Doran, as he looks to salvage what has been a miserable start to his season.

The 27-year-old Hampshire golfer has seen his form dip alarmingly since leading after the first round of the Masters last month.

He has missed his last two cuts - the first time that has happened to him in two years - and has been struggling with a back injury.

Rose has now decided to part ways with Doran, who caddied for Rose last year when he didn't finish outside the top 12 in any of the four majors.

"We're both big boys and came to a mature decision," said Rose.

"It was clear we were not gelling and agreed to split before things got out of hand."

Mark Fulcher, who has caddied on the American ladies' tour for 20 years, has taken up the post.

Don't miss Tuesday's Daily Echo to read about Rose's hopes on his return to the UK for this week's BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth.