World Seniors Championship boss Jason Francis has apologised to players after the schedule was interrupted by an unplayable table. The over-40s event, which Ronnie O’Sullivan is playing in, was thrown into chaos on Thursday when one of the two match tables was taken out of action following player complaints.
It later emerged that a floor slate had dropped, causing an uneven table. As a result, the match between Matthew Stevens and Dominic Dale was paused before eventually resuming on the other table after the conclusion of the tie between Ali Carter and Roger Farebrother. That meant the match between Alifie Burden and Igor Figueiredo – the last two winners of the tournament – was shifted to a backstage practice table. The Brazilian swept to a 4-0 whitewash, meaning Burden didn’t get to defend his title in front of a Crucible crowd.
Francis, who is O’Sullivan’s manager, told Express Sport: “I’ve written to Igor and Alfie and apologised that we were unable to provide a table for them to play on. It was obvious that there was a major joint and slate drop on table two, which meant it was unplayable.
“You can’t rectify a table instantly, it requires time. There are mitigating factors around the access we were given to the Crucible. We were only given five hours to set up four snooker tables [including two in the practice area].
“The fitters who have done the World Snooker Tour for 20 years are here, so there’s no lack of expertise. But the reality is that tables need time to settle.
“We didn’t have a problem on day one or in the afternoon on day two. But by the evening session, we’d had a slate drop and that was rectified overnight. The guys were here until 4am.”
Francis added: “Anyone who knows the Crucible knows it hasn’t got a solid floor. There’s a void underneath, so it’s a challenge everyone has. We’re not the first people to have a problem with a table at the Crucible.
“But that doesn’t take away any of the responsibility we have. We feel disappointed that we were unable to complete all the matches on table two, meaning Alfie and Igor had to play in the practice room.
“We did allow all their families and guests in. It wasn’t like a cupboard. We provided the best conditions we could. A very challenging day but one we will learn from. Not an easy fix but we’ve done the best we can.”
Francis added: “Alfie’s very upset but we’re not going to fall out over it. No one is more gutted than me, I promise. We spoke last night, we’ve spoken this morning. I’m devastated for Alfie; he’s one of my world champions.
“But you can’t just let everyone stay at the venue until the early hours and the TV keeps running. I had a decision to make. I’m across the whole picture, which is broadcast times, public safety and theatre times. There were no real winners last night. I understand people’s disappointment and we apologise.”