SNOOKER: THE MASTERS TRASH BANG WALLOP

Cue's in the bin as Ronnie pulls out of title defence

- SHANE MacDERMOTT

RONNIE O'SULLIVAN left snooker fans stunned as he pulled out of the Masters 48 hours before his title defence.

The Rocket, 49, was due to face John Higgins in a blockbuster clash to savour in the opening session of the illustrious event's 50th birthday tomorrow afternoon.

But after leaving his cue in the bin when he stormed out of the Championship League on Thursday, the record eight-time champion has withdrawn on medical grounds.