XINSATIONAL

Chinese ace seven frames from history

- SHANE MacDERMOTT

ZHAO XINTONG is seven frames away from history after dominating the start of the World Championship final.

The Chinese Cyclone, 28, has the weight of a nation on his shoulders as he bids to become the country's first world champion.

But Zhao handled the pressure of a maiden Sheffield showpiece as he opened up a healthy 11-6 lead over all-time great Mark Williams.

Former UK champion Zhao would become the first amateur to conquer the Crucible.

Zhao, who was ranked world No.9 when he was banned for betting breaches two years ago, would also be the first qualifier to lift the title since Shaun Murphy 20 years ago.

It has been a sad year for Welsh snooker with the losses of legends Ray Reardon and Terry Griffiths, both passing away.