Several top snooker players, such as Ronnie O’Sullivan, Shaun Murphy, Kyren Wilson, and Mark Selby, have shared their views on a rule they believe should be revised in the sport. In a recent interview with TNT Sports, these leading professionals were asked about a potential change they would like to see in snooker rules, with one specific rule repeatedly highlighted.
Seven-time world champion O’Sullivan, among others, has advocated for a review of the contentious ‘miss’ rule, which has been a point of contention for many top players. Under the current rule, if a player fails to make a valid strike on the designated ball, known as ‘on’, and their attempt is deemed inadequate by the referee, a foul and a miss may be called.
The ‘miss’ is typically called when the referee believes a player intentionally chose a more challenging shot over an easier one to escape a snooker. It can also be enforced if a player underplays and fails to make contact with a ball, indicating a lack of effort.
Following a ‘foul and a miss’ call, the opponent of the offending player has the choice to either reset the balls and allow a retake or leave the balls as they are on the table. Continuous ‘foul and a miss’ calls can lead to the player being stuck in a cycle of repeating the same shot indefinitely, while their opponent accumulates points without needing to play.
On the other hand, the ‘three-miss rule’ dictates that a player who fails to hit the correct ball three times consecutively automatically forfeits the frame to their opponent. This rule has been a subject of debate within the sport, with critics highlighting concerns about its inconsistent application, potential game delays, and confusion for casual viewers.
When asked about potential changes to the game, O’Sullivan promptly singled out the miss rule, suggesting a limitation of no more than three misses. Wilson echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to address the miss rule. Selby also weighed in, proposing a restriction where a player can only miss three times before consequences are enforced, citing instances where excessive misses could lead to undeserved victories.
Former world champion Murphy took a different perspective, expressing discontent with how the miss rule can be exploited by players to their advantage. He particularly criticized the allowance for deliberate fouls under this rule, hinting at its negative impact on the game’s integrity.
Adding to the discussion, current world number three Neil Robertson proposed a potential reform to expedite gameplay by suggesting a rule where failure to make contact with a directly visible red ball results in the opponent receiving a free ball.
While adjustments to the miss rule were at the forefront of recommendations from top snooker players, the traditional dress code in the sport also faced scrutiny. Many players advocate for a relaxation of the current requirement for long-sleeved shirts, waistcoats, and formal footwear, believing a more casual approach would benefit the sport.
When questioned about changes, Mark Allen emphasized the need to relax the dress code, echoing sentiments shared by Luca Brecel, who highlighted the dress code, shot clock, and the requirement to always hit a cushion as key areas for potential revision.