MUNICH (Reuters) - Frenchman Francois Delamontagne had to call for a doctor during his second round at the BMW International Open on Friday but recovered to claim a share of the early lead with Britain's Benn Barham.

Delamontagne shot a six-under par 66 to move one-shot clear of Briton Graeme Storm (69) at eight-under. Barham then matched the total with a 68.

"I ate a lot of pasta last night, with a lot of sauce, maybe too much," the 29-year-old told reporters.

"I began to feel unwell, so I had to call out a doctor while I was on the course. He gave me a pill and then I felt a little bit better.

"But I am tired as well. It is my fifth event in a row and I think I need a good rest this afternoon."

There will be no let-up on his schedule though with the French Open in Versailles just a week away.

"It's obviously every Frenchman's dream to win his own open with family and friends all watching." the Paris-based player added.

Delamontagne, fourth in last week's St Omer Open, is looking to retain his 2009 playing rights by moving up from his current position at 117th on the European money list.

"I'm sure I can keep my card because after a difficult year my confidence is coming back."

With Barham lying seven places above Delamontagne in the rankings, both are relatively surprising front-runners.

While neither have won a full tour event, third-placed Storm is peaking at a similar time to last year when he claimed his maiden title at the French Open.

2005 winner David Howell of Britain birdied his last three holes to take a share of fourth place, two shots off the lead.

Two times U.S. Open winner Retief Goosen of South Africa and Britain's Paul Casey, fighting a bad attack of hay fever, are also in the group two shots off the lead.

Another former winner of the event, American two-times major winner John Daly, could miss the cut after carding a 72 to remain on level-par.

(Editing by Padraic Halpin)