Just one win separates Sunday’s players from a Snooker World Championship quarter-final, as we head back to the baize looking for value in wrapping up the second round ties.
It’s Kyren Wilson v Stuart Bingham and Noppon Saengkham v John Higgins in Sheffield, offering something for everyone in attendance.
Let’s take a look at our two big tips for the second round in Sheffield:
Kyren Wilson -4.5 handicap v Stuart Bingham
Kyren Wilson had to work hard to get rid of Ding Junhui in the first round whereas Ball-Run Stuart Bingham had an easier time against Lyu Haotian.
Wilson is number five in the world and knocking on the door of the “big four” following a positive season on the table, and if he can gain some momentum on the table there is no reason why he can’t breeze past Bingham in quick fashion.
Bingham only has three rankings semi-finals to his name across the last three seasons and the form book points comfortably to the Warrior.
Even with a -4.5 handicap we fancy Wilson to advance to the quarter-finals setting up a clash with either Anthony McGill or Judd Trump.
Noppon Saengkham +2.5 handicap v John Higgins
Thai-sensation Noppon Saengkham lit up the opening round in a gutsy destruction of Luca Brecel 10-5, showing a willingness to attack at the table.
The 29-year-old is making strides this season despite not running too deep in any major tournament, but his freedom of play might be just the tonic against a gritty match-player like John Higgins.
The Wizard of Wishaw didn’t have it all his own way against another Thai opponent, Thepchaiya Un-Nooh, in the first round and will be reluctant to leave any half chances against the world number 38 in fear of being countered.
Saengkham’s break building was impressive against Brecel and as long as he doesn’t overthink his meeting with the multiple world champion, he should be able to run the Scot close.
* Betting odds correct at the time of writing. Subject to changes.
