November 23rd 2024.
Zhao Xintong, the talented snooker player, has returned to York, the place where he achieved his biggest victory. However, his comeback has stirred up mixed emotions among fellow players. Dave Gilbert, who has also qualified for the UK Championship, expressed his heartbreak over Zhao's involvement in the match-fixing scandal that rocked the snooker world. Zhao received a 20-month ban for being part of a player's scheme to fix two matches and for betting on matches himself. Along with nine other players, he was found guilty and punished accordingly. Despite being the least involved, Zhao's actions still had consequences, and he was not allowed to participate in professional circuits until September of this year.
However, Zhao did not let his ban stop him from playing the sport he loves. He took to the amateur game and has been dominating the Q Tour, winning two events and even making two 147 breaks. His impressive performances earned him a wildcard entry into the UK Championship qualifying rounds, which he successfully passed, securing a spot in the main event. On Saturday, he will be facing Shaun Murphy, another top player, at the Barbican in York.
Gilbert, who also made it through the qualifying rounds, was asked about Zhao's return to the game. He expressed his admiration for Zhao's skills and described him as a lovely and talented player. However, he couldn't ignore the fact that Zhao's involvement in the match-fixing scandal had hurt many, including himself. Gilbert firmly believes that those who have been caught fixing matches should be banned for life.
Michael Holt, another player who qualified for the UK Championship, shares a similar sentiment. He believes that Zhao has paid his dues and deserves a second chance. Since his return, Zhao has been playing exceptionally well, and Holt sees this as a positive for the sport of snooker.
Murphy, who will face Zhao in the first round, also agrees that Zhao has served his punishment and should be given a second chance. He acknowledges that Zhao's ban was the shortest among the ten players involved in the scandal, and he was never accused of cheating or fixing matches himself. Murphy believes that Zhao's return is a sign of rehabilitation, and he is glad to see him back on the snooker table.
For Zhao, his return signifies a new beginning. He admits to making a mistake two years ago, but he is determined to make a comeback and win trophies. Snooker is his passion, and he knows the importance of the sport in his life.
As Zhao faces Murphy in the first round, another highly anticipated match between Ronnie O'Sullivan and Barry Hawkins will also take place. Both matches will be played at 1pm on Saturday, 23 November, at the Barbican. It will be an exciting day for snooker fans as they witness some of the top players in action.
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