Mark Selby secured a 6-3 victory over Jack Lisowski at the Players Championship, but the win sparked a fascinating discussion about the enigmatic talent known as “Jackpot.” Selby, a four-time world champion, found himself pondering the very nature of Lisowski’s game, a style brimming with brilliance yet often frustratingly inconsistent.
The match itself wasn’t a showcase of either player’s peak form. Selby initially raced to a 3-0 lead, but Lisowski battled back, narrowing the gap to 4-3 before Selby ultimately closed out the match. A stunning 136 clearance in the eighth frame provided a momentary glimpse of Selby’s masterful control.
Selby has faced Lisowski seven times in the past, and a recurring question lingers in his mind: is Lisowski truly giving everything he has? He acknowledges Lisowski’s immense talent, comparing his unpredictable nature to that of Ronnie O’Sullivan, but admits to moments where his opponent appeared disengaged.
“You never know what you’re going to get from him,” Selby confessed. He observed instances during the match where Lisowski’s shot selection seemed to lack conviction, almost as if he didn’t fully want to be there. Yet, Selby firmly believes Lisowski is competing with the same intensity as himself.
Lisowski recently achieved a breakthrough, claiming his first ranking title at the Northern Ireland Open, a moment celebrated throughout the snooker world. However, his form has dipped since that triumph, leading Selby to believe that his ultra-attacking style inherently limits his potential for sustained success.
“To be consistent, I don’t really think you can have that kind of game,” Selby explained. He argues that a more well-rounded approach is necessary for enduring success, acknowledging that even the best players experience off days. Consistency, he believes, is a challenge for anyone, let alone someone who relies so heavily on high-risk, high-reward shots.
Selby, renowned for his patience and tactical acumen, believes this is precisely what Lisowski could benefit from developing. While acknowledging that tempering his attacking instincts would diminish his captivating style, he suggests a touch more composure could unlock a new level of consistency.
He drew a parallel to Thepchaiya Un-Nooh, another player known for his all-or-nothing approach. Both players thrive on their boldness, but Selby suggests this very quality might be hindering their ability to consistently reach the pinnacle of the sport. It’s a delicate balance between maintaining their unique flair and achieving greater stability.
Despite his observations, Selby remains a staunch admirer of Lisowski’s talent. He recognizes that Lisowski’s recent ranking victory proves he’s on the right path, and hopes this success will serve as a catalyst for further achievements. Selby now prepares to face Mark Allen in the quarter-finals, continuing his own pursuit of silverware.
Selby advanced to the quarter-finals with a 6-3 win over Wu Yize, setting up a compelling clash with Allen on Friday night. The Players Championship continues to deliver thrilling encounters, showcasing the very best of the sport’s talent and tactical battles.
