With the snooker world championship qualifiers starting on the 6th April, we take a look at some of the players and the format for the event.
The world championship qualifiers will take place in Ponds Forge International Sports Centre in Sheffield between the 6th and 13th of April. Each player must win a total of three best of 19 matches in order to secure a spot in the 16 that will progress to the finals of the world championships.
One of the most notable players playing in the world championship qualifers is Ding Junhui, who was dislodged from the top 16 by Stephen Maguire last week, due to his great run at the China Open where he reached the semi finals. Ding not being part of the top 16 has shocked many snooker fans across the world. He has had a poor season though, with some very early exits from tournaments causing his world ranking to dip.
Four previous world champions will also be at the qualifying stage. These include 6 time world champion, Steve Davis, Ken Doherty, Graeme Dott and Peter Ebdon. Also six time world championship finalist, Jimmy White is playing here. We know these players have the experience and talent to get themselves out the world championship qualifying stage, but in recent years, some of these players have struggled.
It would be fantastic to see some of the legends getting through the qualifiers and back into the crucible to hit our tv screens again.
This year, 2015 world ladies champion, Ng On Yee will be playing Peter Lines in her first match. Its great to see professional snooker expanding to the ladies and the world wold snooker has put into this area of the game is beginning to be seen.
With a big mix of professional players and a few amateurs, the world championship qualifiers is set to be an exciting even in itself.