Seven-time world snooker champion Stephen Hendry has backed calls from Neil Robertson to prohibit the Triangle Chalk used by Ronnie O’Sullivan at the Crucible this year. O’Sullivan remains amongst a minority using the traditional chalk, which critics fear causes kicks and damages the table surface. The 50-year-old’s preference did not sit well with 2010 champ Robertson, who voiced his relief at avoiding the Rocket during this year’s competition in Sheffield.
The issue came into sharp focus when O’Sullivan faced John Higgins in the second round, with Higgins eventually winning 13-12 to secure a quarter-final clash against Robertson. During an episode of Stephen Hendry’s Cue Tips, the Scot addressed a question regarding the number of miscues at this year’s worlds. “That was another big talking point, the chalk – chalk-gate,” he replied. Picking up his own chalk from the table to draw a comparison, he continued: “Ronnie using Triangle Chalk when everyone else is using this stuff. Stops kicks, stops bounces, there’s no marks on the cloth. Neil Robertson actually called for World Snooker to ban it, which I don’t disagree with if I’m honest. I think it spoils the game as a spectacle.”
He continued: “I know John Higgins, when he was playing Ronnie, he was smiling quite a lot – sort of wry smiles. [He was] constantly getting the cue ball cleaned, constantly wiping the table.
“I do think there’s a slight call, possibly, for it (the Triangle Chalk) to be banned. But whether they could go down that route, I don’t know.”
A World Snooker Tour spokesperson reaffirmed the position that players are free to choose whichever chalk they wish. However, Robertson – who suffered a 13-10 defeat to Higgins – wasn’t afraid to say how he really felt about the situation.
“I would prefer to play John so I don’t have to contend with the chalk that Ronnie uses, which should be banned from the game,” he told BBC Four. I don’t know how you are allowed to even use it.”
Speaking after a round of 16 victory over Chris Wakelin, the Australian went into more detail. “All the players hate it, it just destroys it. You get kicks, bounces and it makes an absolute mess of the table,” he added.
“I know he (O’Sullivan) is friends with [artist] Damien Hirst, but it’s like he is making artwork with the chalk all over the cloth. I don’t think he does it to put anyone off, he is not that way inclined at all. He is about the only player left on tour that uses that chalk – hopefully they bring in a ban.”
The Rocket has since returned to action at the Crucible, making his bow in the World Seniors Championship. The rules – which previously barred players ranked inside the top 64 in the world from taking part – have been revised, opening the door for his participation.