Michael White prepares for Welsh showdown with fading Mark Williams
Published:Former two-time World Championship winner Mark Williams faces compatriot Michael White in the first round of this year’s tournament and The Welsh Wonder could be on the wrong end of a famous upset.
Having endured a patchy 2012/2013 campaign, reminiscent of his previous major dip in form five years ago, Williams could be heading for more disappointment.
Opponent Michael White has made the final 32 for the first time, however, despite his lack of experience the talented 21-year-old shouldn’t be written off readily.
An impressive 4-1 victory over Williams in this season’s first Asian Players Tour Championship event was a noteworthy scalp for the man nicknamed Lightning.
White notched a century break in that last-16 encounter before eventually bowing out in the semi-final to Stuart Bingham.
Other highlights this term include his first qualification for a ranking event in the form of the UK Championship.
A game 6-3 opening round defeat to world number one Mark Selby was certainly no disgrace for the player priced at an attractive 9/4 to inflict more misery upon Williams.
And with a Crucible debut in the offing the Neath potter will be eager to further boost his profile in front of packed crowds.
Now could be the moment White emerges as one of Wales’ premier cuesmiths and there’s no doubt that his more illustrious opponent’s star has been waning recently.
His run to the semi-final of the Shanghai Masters aside, Williams has suffered first round defeats in the UK Championship, International Championship and PTC Grand Final this season.
And those searching for even better value could be lured in by the tempting 22/1 for White to triumph 10-5 on his maiden appearance in Sheffield.
Following last June’s exploits against Williams, as well as 10-5 and 10-4 victories in qualifiying, frame betting is an appealing alternative.
A changing of the Welsh guard could take place at this year’s tournament. If White thrives on the atmosphere of snooker’s biggest stage then there’s every chance he can overcome an ailing Williams and begin to make his mark on the game.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
