The Irishman added a second round of 69 to his opening 72 for a halfway total of one-under par at Royal County Down, with Mcllroy's 70 leaving him well on the pace at four under.
Mcllroy is two shots behind leader Matteo Manassero.
Lowry (left), who won the title in 2009 while still an amateur, said: "I know I can go and give it a run. I think it's what the tournament wants and needs. Obviously myself and Rory are up there.
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Denne historien er fra September 14, 2024-utgaven av Daily Star.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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