Current world number one Lee Westwood is looking forward to crossing swords wih his nearest rivals in Dubai this weekend.

The world's top three players, Lee Westwood, Martin Kaymer and Tiger Woods have been grouped together for the first two rounds of this weekend's Dubai Desert Classic in the UAE.

Though supposed to be a free draw, it is thought the tournament organizers succumbed to the demands of TV broadcasters in pairing the trio together for the competition's opening rounds.

It will be the first time the world's top three ranked players have been grouped together for the start of a European Tour event.

Either of the three could take the world number one spot this weekend.

Current number one Westwood, who has endured a poor start to the season after missing the cut in Qatar last week after finishing 64th in Abu Dhabi last month, says he is relishing playing with his nearest rivals.

"It's what people would like to see," said the Englishman. "Having the top two in the rankings against a player who's dominated the game over the last 15 years would be great."

German Kaymer will be the favorite for the tournament when they tee-off on Thursday. He scooped the Abu Dhabi Championship by a remarkable eight shots three weeks ago and is relishing the prospect of playin alongside 14-time Major winner Woods for the first time.

"I've wanted to play with him since I watched him on TV win the 1997 Masters," said Kaymer. "But I don't know why I should be nervous. He's a human being"