The Coronavirus claimed yet another sporting event. Snooker is the latest sport to fall victim to the pandemic. The 2020 World Snooker Championship is postponed to a later time. 

The qualifying rounds were scheduled from April 8 to 15. The finals were to emanate from Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre where it has been held every year since 1977. Judd Trump was scheduled to defend his title at the tournament scheduled from April 18 to May 4.

The world snooker governing body said that they intend to host the World Snooker Championship on rescheduled dates in July or August. The qualifying rounds will be held in the weeks before the event. 

A statement on their website said tickets for the final stages will be automatically transferred. Ticket holders will be contacted and the Crucible website and social media will be updated,” read the statement. 

WST Chairman Barry Hearn hints at tour being kept alive

World Snooker Tour (WST) Chairman Barry Hearn acknowledged that these are tough times for all. He said they are determined to get through it. 

“Fans around the world, as well as all the players involved, are anxious to know if the tournament will go ahead,” said Hearn in a statement on the World Snooker website. 

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Barry Hearn said that the governing body had a responsibility towards its players. This is because snooker players are self-employed. They need to compete in tournaments to earn a living. He revealed that the governing body is exploring this option as they aim to keep the circuit alive. 

Last week’s Gibraltar Open was held behind closed doors. World Snooker Champion Judd Trump won the event. He became the first player to win 6 ranking titles in a single season.

If Hearn’s words have weight, fans could see the return of snooker quite quickly as the closed-door events would resume soon. These too will be subject to each country’s travel restrictions. Hearn signed off by highlighting how live televised coverage of sporting events in times such as these could serve as an inspiration to people around the world. He said there will be more details next week.

WBSPA to provide support to players

The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WBSPA) said it would provide support to all tour players affected by the Coronavirus pandemic. WPBSA chairman Jason Ferguson said: “All of us at the WPBSA care about our players and will do everything in our power to help everybody through at this difficult time.“