Marc Leishman will link up with Chilean Joaquin Niemann to face off against legendary American Tiger Woods and world number five Justin Thomas in the opening round of Presidents Cup action on Thursday.

The four-ball format - also known as best ball or better ball - allows teams of two to card the lowest score on each hole.

Leishman and Niemann were International captain Ernie Els' first pick in a suspense-filled selection ceremony on Wednesday.

Woods selected himself and Thomas just seconds later.

When quizzed on the decision to select himself against Leishman, the 15-time major winner said it fitted the American gameplan.

"Well, I think from our side, we had a game plan, who we wanted to start out," Woods said.

"We were committed to putting Justin (Thomas) and myself out there, and that's who we're rolling with."

American captain Woods said the early tee-off time - he and Thomas will battle Leishman and Niemann from 9.32am - would allow him to watch his players.

"It was important for me to get out there as a player, but also as a captain, I want to obviously see my guys play.

"This is my first time as a captain. I want to be able to enjoy that part of it, as well.

"So having my responsibility as a player, I want to get out there and play with Justin, but also as a captain, I want to see my guys play."

Els expected the crowd to back Leishman but urged spectators to back the other international players.

"There's enough Aussies out there to rally a lot of guys, but we are all one this week - the whole internationals," he said.

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