Thor Hammers McGill

Thor Chuan Leong secured a surprise 4-1 defeat of world number 16 Anthony McGill at Indian Open qualifying in Preston.

The Malaysian dropped off the tour last season, but bounced straight back by regaining his tour card at Q School. McGill was the Indian Open champion in 2016, but defeat sees him miss out on a place in Kochi.

Thor struck with breaks of 70 and 64 on his way towards today’s victory.

Switzerland’s Alexander Ursenbacher overcame German tour rookie Simon Lichtenberg 4-2 to book his trip to Kochi.

Ursenbacher, who reached the semi-finals of last season’s English Open, top scored with a run of 98.

Former World Champion Graeme Dott eased through against tour rookie Kishan Hirani, thanks to a 4-0 victory. While Craig Steadman recorded a fine 4-2 defeat of 2016 Northern Ireland Open champion Mark King.

Jimmy Robertson held off a fightback from amateur David Lilley to progress with a 4-3 win. Chinese star Lyu Haotian also came through a deciding frame to beat compatriot Tian Pengfei 4-3.

For full results click here.