Snooker’s top players, including renowned figures like Ronnie O’Sullivan, Shaun Murphy, Kyren Wilson, and Mark Selby, have shared their thoughts on a rule change they believe is necessary in the sport. During an interview with TNT Sports, these elite professionals were asked about their desired alteration to snooker rules, with one specific regulation consistently highlighted.
Ronnie O’Sullivan, a seven-time world champion, along with several other players, have called for a review of the contentious ‘miss’ rule, which has been a point of contention among top players. The current rule penalizes players if they fail to make contact with the designated ball, termed a ‘miss’, often resulting in tactical challenges and strategic disadvantages.
The ‘foul and a miss’ rule can lead to a situation where the player committing the foul is stuck in a loop of repeating the same shot, while their opponent gains points without active gameplay. Additionally, the ‘three-miss rule’ can be a game-changer, as it forces a player who misses the target ball three times in a row to concede the frame to their opponent.
When asked for their opinions on potential changes to the game, O’Sullivan emphasized the need to address the miss rule, advocating for a limit on the number of misses allowed. Kyren Wilson echoed this sentiment, suggesting a cap on the number of misses permitted in a match.
Mark Selby also weighed in on the matter, proposing a restriction where players can only miss a set number of times before facing consequences. Shaun Murphy expressed concern about how the miss rule could be exploited, particularly in terms of deliberate fouls, calling for a revision to this aspect of the game.
Neil Robertson, the current world number three, introduced a new idea to speed up gameplay by suggesting a penalty for not making contact with a visible red ball, granting the opponent a free ball.
In addition to rule changes, players also discussed the traditional dress code in snooker, advocating for a more relaxed approach to attire. The requirement for long-sleeved shirts, waistcoats, and formal footwear has been a point of contention, with many players suggesting a more casual dress code for tournaments.
Mark Allen highlighted the dress code as an area needing relaxation, while Luca Brecel emphasized the importance of incorporating a shot clock and ensuring that players consistently hit a cushion during gameplay. These recommendations aim to modernize the sport and enhance the overall player experience for both participants and viewers.