A thrilling new tournament is set to unfold as some of snooker’s biggest names prepare to compete in a fast-paced, high-stakes event this month. While the elite sixteen players bypass the initial qualifying rounds for the UK Championship, they’re free to participate in this exciting competition.
John Higgins, Neil Robertson, and Mark Selby are among the confirmed players, alongside seasoned veterans like Mark Williams and Barry Hawkins. The event promises a captivating display of skill and strategy, offering fans a unique spectacle during the qualifying stages.
The tournament, boasting a prize fund exceeding £70,000, will be played under the dynamic Snooker 900 format. This electrifying variation features a 15-minute, 20-second shot clock, demanding quick thinking and precision from every player.
Matches will begin as best-of-11 frames, escalating to a best-of-13 showdown in the final. The action will unfold over several days, starting with quarter-finals split across two sessions on November 24th, followed by semi-finals and a climactic final on November 25th.
A separate tournament the week prior, from November 17th to 19th, will also showcase legendary players in a round-robin format. Jimmy White, Ken Doherty, and Reanne Evans are confirmed to compete, adding another layer of excitement for snooker enthusiasts.
This surge in activity is fueled by the launch of Pluto Snooker 900, a dedicated channel bringing the sport to a wider audience. The channel, spearheaded by Jason Francis, aims to revitalize snooker and attract a new generation of fans.
Francis envisioned a format that would both honor the traditions of the game and inject a fresh energy into it. Seeing Snooker 900 become the cornerstone of a dedicated channel, and with the support of a snooker icon, has surpassed his initial expectations.
Ronnie O’Sullivan has enthusiastically backed the initiative, hinting at potential future appearances on the channel. He envisions a platform where he can continue to play and contribute to the sport for years to come, provided the passion from fans remains.
O’Sullivan expressed his enduring love for the game, drawing parallels to legends like Jimmy White and Steve Davis who continue to compete. He sees Pluto Snooker 900 as a vital outlet, ensuring a space for players to showcase their talent and entertain audiences.
The channel promises to be a haven for all types of snooker, catering to both dedicated fans and newcomers alike. It represents a significant step forward in expanding the reach and appeal of this beloved sport.
