Calcutta: Mukesh Kumar fired a superb five-under 65 on Saturday to find himself within striking distance of Rafique Ali after the penultimate round of the Rs 10-lakh Patna Open, being played at the par-70, Patna Golf Course.

According to information received here, Rafique, who shot a one-under 69, continues in the lead at 11-under 199, with Mukesh placed second at 201. The third position was taken by city?s Firoz Ali and Lucknow?s Vijay Kumar.