Ronnie O’Sullivan needs just one more frame against Pang Junxu to cement an unprecedented 23 Crucible quarter final appearance after surging into a 12-4 lead on April 28. The 7 time champion rattled in back to back centuries and four further runs above 50 during the second session, turning a 6-2 overnight cushion into an almost unassailable advantage that left the Sheffield crowd in little doubt about his title credentials.
O’Sullivan required less than 15 minutes of table time when play resumed on Monday evening, dispatching Pang with a fluent 95 to end one of the fastest sessions witnessed at the Worlds. Earlier in the match he produced consecutive breaks of 123 and 121, despite admitting he still feels “rusty” after a 3 month sabbatical from ranking competition.
Victory would book a last eight clash with Si Jiahui, the Chinese prodigy who shocked pundits by reaching the semi finals 2 years ago. O’Sullivan was keen to temper expectations, stressing that extended table time rather than a quick win might have served him better as the best of 25 battles loom. Yet his authoritative cue ball control and sharp long potting suggested the Rocket remains capable of lifting an 8th world crown next week.
Seven time finalist Jimmy White told that rivals have yet to “lay a glove” on O’Sullivan, attributing the 49 year old’s dominance to improved fitness and refreshed concentration following his self imposed break. White warned however that the Rocket has started slowly in previous quarter finals, urging fans not to assume the milestone will arrive without drama.
O’Sullivan’s sustained success continues to redefine sporting longevity. Since debuting at the Crucible in 1993 he has contested 33 editions, amassed 1200 century breaks, and eclipsed Stephen Hendry in almost every statistical category bar total world titles. A triumphant run this fortnight would move him clear of Hendry and restore his status as undisputed snooker benchmark for a generation raised on his break building genius.
With the Rocket one frame from history and the Class of 92 trio all alive, the quarter final draw promises nostalgia and high drama in equal measure as the 49th Championship enters its decisive phase.
