Seven-time world snooker champion Stephen Hendry has added his voice to calls for a ban on the Triangle Chalk used by Ronnie O'Sullivan at the Crucible during this year's World Snooker Championship. The traditional chalk, which O'Sullivan favours, has drawn criticism for causing kicks and leaving marks on the table.
O'Sullivan's Chalk Sparks Controversy
O'Sullivan's choice did not sit well with Australian professional Neil Robertson, who expressed relief at avoiding the Rocket in this year's tournament. The issue came to a head when O'Sullivan faced John Higgins in the second round, with Higgins winning 13-12 to set up a quarter-final against Robertson.
During an episode of Stephen Hendry's Cue Tips, the Scot addressed the number of miscues at this year's championships. "That was another big talking point, the chalk - chalk-gate," he said.
Hendry's Verdict
Picking up his own chalk for comparison, Hendry continued: "Ronnie using Triangle Chalk when everyone else is using this stuff. It stops kicks, stops bounces, and leaves no marks on the cloth."
He added: "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. 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."
Hendry concluded: "I do think there's a slight call, possibly, for it to be banned. But whether they could go down that route, I don't know."
Robertson's Strong Words
Robertson made his frustrations clear, telling BBC Four: "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. I don't know how you are allowed to even use it."
A World Snooker Tour spokesperson reiterated that players have free choice over the chalk they use. However, Robertson, who lost 13-10 to Higgins, did not hold back.
"All the players hate it, it just destroys it. You get kicks, bounces and it makes an absolute mess of the table," he said after a round of 16 victory over Chris Wakelin. "I know he is friends with 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."
O'Sullivan's Return
The Rocket is now back in action at the Crucible, making his debut in the World Seniors Championship. The rules, which previously prevented players in the top 64 of the world rankings from participating, have been changed, allowing his inclusion.
