Bingham Downs Selby To Reach Semis

Stuart Bingham produced a sparkling display to defeat World Champion Mark Selby 4-2 and progress to the semi-finals of the 888sport European Masters in Lommel.

Victory for Bingham ends a run of three consecutive ranking defeats at the hands of World Champion Selby. 2015 Crucible winner Bingham has already shown himself to be in good touch this week, having downed local star Luca Brecel. Selby can reflect on his best tournament showing since capturing a third world title back in May. The Jester compiled six century runs across the event.

Bingham made a break of 65 to take the opening frame, but was immediately pegged back by Selby who compiled a run of 63 to level at 1-1. From there it was the four-time ranking event winner Bingham who pulled away. Consecutive breaks of 83 and 113 saw him move one from victory at 3-1. Although Selby clawed one back, it was to be in vain as Bingham emerged a 4-2 victor.

Bingham said: “Every tournament I go into I try and win. I’m in the business end, but it is going to be tough in the semi-finals. If I can play as I have been then I have every chance. It’s best of 11 tomorrow, so let’s get it on!”

Bingham’s semi-final opponent will be Chinese teenager Zhou Yuelong who demolished world number 16 Anthony McGill 4-0.

The win for Zhou keeps alive hopes of an all Chinese final with Cao Yupeng, who faces Judd Trump tomorrow. If both players were to win then it would be only the second ranking event final to be contested by two players from mainland China.

Zhou’s win today was secured in quickfire fashion, as he coasted to victory in just over an hour. After winning a tight first frame and pinching the second on the black the Chinese star made his move. Back-to-back century runs of 138 and 136 saw him secure the win in emphatic style.