Virtual Higgins Inspired By The Real Thing

John Higgins, represented by Benny de Nayer, set up a final clash with Mark Selby at the Virtual Betfred World Championship by beating Kyren Wilson 3-1 in the semis.

De Nayer revealed afterwards that an email from the real John Higgins inspired him to victory over Wilson as he moved a step closer to the title in the first ever virtual World Championship.

Higgins and Selby – represented by Scott Edwards – will go head to head on Monday from 10am with first to three frames to take the trophy.

De Nayer said: “I got an email from John himself, which was a big surprise. He wished me good luck in the tournament, sent his congratulations and said he would have been proud himself of the clearance I made to beat Mark Allen in the previous round.

“He said he would be cheering me on in the semis. I want to give him his fifth world title! It’s nice to know that the pro players are watching this virtual World Championship.”

Wilson, represented by Julien Pacaud, lost the first two frames then took the third and had chances to make it 2-2. Frame four came down to the colours and Higgins potted blue and pink before converting a risky long pot on the black along a side cushion for victory.

Watch the full match here: