Aaron Rai took a share of the BMW PGA Championship first-round lead alongside Joakim Lagergren as Rory Mc Ilroy "stumbled" after a strong start to finish three off the lead.

Englishman Rai and Lagergren of Sweden posted scores of six-under-par 66 at Wentworth. In windy conditions, 2013 Masters champion Adam Scott also surged to tie Ryan Gerard, Ludvig Åberg and Nacho Elvira for third with a score of 67.

Race to Dubai rankings leader Patrick Reed was one of 12 players to tie for seventh, with Viktor Hovland, Ryan Fox and Robert Mac Intyre joining him as they carded 68s. Jon Rahm endured a tough day, posting a six-over 78. Justin Rose ended his day at one over.

Rai said: "I felt like I got into the round fast and got a couple of birdies early on and continued to just play well throughout the round and keep the momentum going when I was out of position."

Mc Ilroy, who had a lot to be pleased about despite falling to tied-19th, said: "A stumble home is a good way to put it. I wish I was standing here a couple of shots better. That's what I feel I should be, but overall, I saw some good signs in my game and saw some putts go in, which was encouraging compared to last week. It's definitely a score I can build on."