Zhou Sets Sights On Chengdu

Zhou Yuelong underlined his reputation as one of snooker’s most gifted young players with a 6-2 victory over Liang Wenbo in the International Championship qualifying round in Barnsley.

Zhou, age just 16, is playing on the World Snooker Tour for the first time this season having won the IBSF World Championship last year. He comes from Chengdu so will be playing in front of his home fans at the world ranking event next month.

Against fellow Chinese potter Liang, Zhou compiled breaks of 58, 52, 59, 69 and 76 in a convincing victory.

Earlier this season, Zhou played Graeme Dott at the Wuxi Classic, and although the Scot came out on top he had some glowing praise for his opponent. “I think he’ll be next big player coming through in China,” said Dott. “He’s the best coming through. He’s got a great all round game and he’s one to look out for.”

Judd Trump, who won the inaugural International Championship two years ago, cruised to a 6-0 win over Ian Glover with top runs of 109, 56 and 95. Ricky Walden was also on the right side of a whitewash, beating Lyu Chenwei with a top break of 87.