Kuala Lumpur:Defending champion Miyu Yamashita of Japan delivered an impressive performance, sinking six birdies in a bogey-free round to seize the lead after the second round of the Maybank Championship 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Yamashita's consistent play, highlighted by birdies on the second, third, sixth, eighth, 10th, and 15th holes, resulted in a six-under 66. This performance gave her a two-stroke lead with a 13-under 131 total, reinforcing her position as a strong contender to retain her title.

Yamashita expressed satisfaction with her play, noting the consistency of her ball striking and the quality of her approach shots, which provided numerous birdie opportunities. She remarked on her improved performance compared to the previous year, attributing it to a better overall game and swing.

In contrast, first-round leader Pauline Roussin-Bouchard of France slipped to joint second after a three-under 69. She shares the second spot with Spain's Julia Lopez Ramirez, who matched Yamashita's second-round score with a six-under 66, both totaling 11-under 133 for two days.