Unusual snooker incident as referee climbs on to table during Mark Selby match | Other | Sport

Snooker star Mark Selby and referee Natalia Gradinari found themselves clambering onto the table during an unusual incident at the Tour Championship. Scottish legend John Higgins was left grinning as his opponent and the official resorted to extraordinary measures to verify a touching ball during the quarter-final encounter in Manchester.

With the match at a crucial juncture, there was debate over whether the white and the blue were touching during a tight 14th frame. After several examinations, Gradinari concluded that they were, but Selby left the audience entertained as he climbed onto the baize and lay flat on his stomach to attempt a closer inspection. The referee then had to straddle the table herself to gain a clearer vantage point before Selby did likewise.

Scotland’s Alan McManus was in the TV commentary box and praised Selby for attempting to assist the referee. McManus said: “It is difficult for Natalia to determine whether it is a touching ball. It is actually a really nice thing that Mark is doing, it is to his advantage that it is touching in some ways, he just aided Natalia in getting the absolute correct decision.”

McManus’ co-commentator David Hendon also saw the amusing side of the entire incident and added: “She’s having to clamber on the table here. Mark is going to have a look himself.”

Ultimately, Selby’s determined efforts came to nothing as Higgins claimed victory in a closely fought rematch of last year’s final – a contest the Wishaw ace also won to secure the title he is now defending at Manchester Central.

Higgins found himself trailing 5-3 at one point, yet fought back in characteristic fashion to seal a 10-8 victory and advance to the semi-finals.

He said: “I thought he was beginning to hit the ball superbly so you are thinking maybe it could be the same as last year. That is all I was hoping. It came true again. He went into the balls and didn’t land on one and you are thinking maybe it is my turn. I was delighted the way I dug in.”

Higgins will face reigning world champion Zhao Xintong, who swept past Chris Wakelin 10-4, as his form continues to gather momentum ahead of his title defence at the Crucible, which gets under way in just over a fortnight.

Judd Trump will take on Neil Robertson in the other semi-final after the world No.1 edged out Shaun Murphy 10-9 in a thrilling encounter.