In the new season of snooker, Mark Williams started strong by winning Group 4 at the Championship League in Leicester, securing a spot in the last 32 of the first ranking event of the campaign. The three-time world champion had a tight 2-2 draw with Connor Benzey in his opening match, followed by impressive 3-0 victories over Fergal Quinn and David Grace. Williams showcased his scoring power with breaks of 90, 99, 66, 101, 87, and 115, indicating that he has not lost his touch since winning the British Open and Tour Championship last season. Meanwhile, former Shoot Out winner Chris Wakelin topped Group 17 after drawing 2-2 with Ian Burns, earning himself a spot in the last 32.
Wakelin’s draw with Burns in the final Group 17 match allowed him to finish on seven points, two points ahead of Burns and secure his place in the next round. Earlier in the group stage, Wakelin had secured 3-0 victories over Rory McLeod and Liam Pullen, needing just one point to progress. The Championship League continued with more action on Wednesday, with two-time world finalist Matthew Stevens also competing for a spot in the last 32. The group winners will proceed to two further groups, with the final winner set to receive £33,000 and a spot in the Champion of Champions event later in the year, worth an additional £12,500.
The Championship League saw several notable players in action, with Australian Neil Robertson winning Group 21, Welsh player Ryan Day coming out on top in Group 11, and Williams emerging victorious in Group 4. The competition features live streaming of top snooker action on platforms such as discovery+, the Eurosport app, and eurosport.com. The event structure includes group stages followed by a final, where the ultimate winner will not only take home a significant cash prize but also earn a place in the prestigious Champion of Champions tournament. With multiple world champions and seasoned players participating, the Championship League promises exciting and high-quality snooker matches for fans and viewers alike.
As the tournament progresses, players like Mark Williams and Chris Wakelin have demonstrated their skill and determination, securing victories in their respective groups to advance to the next round. The competitive nature of the Championship League ensures intense matches and gripping performances, as players battle it out for a chance to claim the title and the lucrative prize money on offer. With the added incentive of qualifying for the Champion of Champions event at stake, the stakes are high, motivating participants to give their best and showcase their snooker prowess. Fans can follow the action live on various streaming platforms, allowing them to witness the drama and excitement unfold as the tournament reaches its climax.
