Galaxy of big names still in Abu Dhabi Golf Championship contention

The sublimely talented German - whose calmness and accurate strokeplay have earned him comparisons with Ernie Els - leads the field at 13-under par.

In a day of roller-coaster drama and mixed fortunes at the National Course, Ireland's Padraig Harrington, Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy and Darren Clarke, England's Luke Donald and Lee Westwood and Australia's Adam Scott, will all see out the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship after surviving the one over par cut.

Spain's Miguel Angel Jiminez, Scotsman Colin Montgomerie and Dane Thomas Bjorn also survived to ensure the final 36 holes will see plenty more drama at Abu Dhabi's flagship sporting event.

However, the entire field will face a stern task if they are to catch prodigy Kaymer. Going into the business end of the Championship, he holds a six shot lead over nearest challenger Henrik Stenson, who finished the day at 7-under par.

In the biggest shock of the day, Paul Casey - the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship's defending champion - missed the cut (one over par) and sensationally crashed out of the tournament.

Casey - who shot rounds of 75 and 72 to finish three over par - said he "just couldn't get to grips with the putter" as he relinquished the 'Falcon' trophy.

"It's disappointing, but it's just one of those things," added the Englishman - the current world number 21.