Justin Rose faces an early start to the defence of his US Open title at Pinehurst next week, writes Phil Casey.

Rose, who won his maiden major title at Merion last year, will tee off at 7.51am local time alongside Open champion Phil Mickelson and US Amateur champion Matt Fitzpatrick.

Rory McIlroy - paired with fellow former champion and compatriot Graeme McDowell - is also among the early starters at 7.40am, along with Stephen Gallacher who starts at 7.29am with Boo Weekley and DA Points.

Chris Doak, the only other Scot, will join Kevin Tway and James Renner on the 10th tee at 8.46am.