Stuart Carrington emerged victorious in Group 20 at the Championship League on Saturday at the Mattioli Arena in Leicester. The World No. 72 secured a 2-2 draw with Pang Janxu to advance to the last 32 of the season’s first ranking event. Carrington needed just a single point against Pang in the section decider after notching wins over Gong Chenzhi (3-1) and Gerard Greene (3-0). Despite Pang’s impressive breaks of 67 and 57, Carrington’s composure under pressure ultimately sealed his progression.
In contrast, Pang’s compatriot Long Zehuang dominated in Group 19, sweeping aside his opponents Lei Peifan (3-1), Alfie Davies (3-1), and Jamie O’Neill (3-1) to finish comfortably at the top of the group. Long showcased his skills with five 50-plus breaks, including a solid 98 in his victory against O’Neill. The tournament saw an unexpected substitution for Noppon Saengkham by O’Neill, adding an element of surprise to the competition.
Looking ahead, four-time world champion John Higgins is set to commence his campaign on Monday, joining the likes of Scottish and Welsh Open champion Gary Wilson in the action. The tournament features 32 groups, each comprising four players. The eight group winners progress to the next stage, where they compete in two additional groups, culminating in a final showdown. The winner of the Championship League stands to gain £33,000 and a coveted spot in the prestigious Champion of Champions event later in the year, offering an additional £12,500 for qualifying players.
Among the recent group winners of the Championship League are Neil Robertson from Australia, Ryan Day and Mark Williams from Wales, Chris Wakelin and Ashley Carty from England, Matthew Stevens from Wales, Michael White from Wales, Joe O’Connor from England, Jackson Page from Wales, Thepchaiya Un-Nooh from Thailand, Jamie Jones from Wales, Ben Woollaston from England, Jak Jones from Wales, Robbie McGuigan from Northern Ireland, Martin O’Donnell from England, Wu Yize from China, Alexander Ursenbacher from Switzerland, and David Lilley from England, to name a few.
For snooker enthusiasts, discovery+ is the ultimate destination for the Olympic Games and the exclusive streaming platform to catch every moment of Paris 2024 this summer. Stay tuned for more thrilling matches and fierce competition as the Championship League unfolds, showcasing the talents of top players from around the world. Follow the action, as seasoned veterans and rising stars battle it out on the green baize for glory and riches.
