Chandigarh, April 3 -- Chandigarh golfer Karandeep Kochhar produced a composed, bogey-free round of four-under 67 to break into the top 10 after the opening day of the US $2 million International Series Japan at the Caledonian Golf Club. Kochhar trails leader Hongtaek Kim of South Korea by three shots. Starting from the 10th, Kochhar endured a quiet front stretch, carding nine consecutive pars before finding momentum after the turn. The Indian then shifted gears with birdies on the 1st, 4th, 6th and 8th to cap a clinical round that showcased patience and precision. At the top, Kim fired a brilliant seven-under 64, capitalising on favourable afternoon conditions with an eagle, six birdies and a lone bogey. He leads compatriot Younghan Song and Thailand's Poom Saksansin, who returned identical 65s. Among other Indians, Jeev Milkha Singh (72) and Gaganjeet Bhullar (73) will look to recover after modest starts. With crucial early points on offer in the International Series standings - where top performers earn a pathway to the LIV Golf League - Kochhar's steady opening places him firmly....