Several prominent snooker players, such as Ronnie O’Sullivan, Shaun Murphy, Kyren Wilson, and Mark Selby, have shared their views on a rule they believe should be changed in the sport. During an interview with TNT Sports, top professionals in the game were asked about the single change they would like to see in snooker rules, and a consistent topic emerged.
Seven-time world champion O’Sullivan, along with other players, has advocated for a review of the contentious ‘miss’ rule, which has been a contentious issue among top players. The current rule penalizes players with a foul and a miss if they fail to make a correct strike on the designated ball.
A miss is typically called by the referee when they perceive that a player intentionally chose a more difficult shot instead of an easier one to escape a snooker. It can also be enforced if a player underperforms and fails to make contact with a ball, indicating a lack of effort.
Under the ‘foul and a miss’ ruling, the opponent of the offending player can choose to reset the balls for a retake or leave the table as is. Repeated fouls may result in the player continuously attempting the same shot while their opponent accumulates points without playing.
On the other hand, the ‘three-miss rule’ mandates that a player conceding three consecutive misses automatically forfeits the frame to their opponent. This rule has sparked debate within the sport, with concerns about inconsistent enforcement, game pace, and viewer comprehension.
When asked about potential changes to the game, O’Sullivan promptly highlighted the ‘miss rule,’ advocating for a limit of three misses. Wilson echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for a restriction on the number of misses.
Selby also weighed in on the issue, proposing a limitation where a player can only miss three times before the frame is decided, criticizing instances where a player can win due to multiple misses despite being behind in points.
Former world champion Murphy expressed concerns about potential exploitation of the miss rule, emphasizing the need for a revision to prevent deliberate fouls that could affect the game’s integrity.
Additionally, current world number three Neil Robertson suggested an adjustment where failing to make contact with a red ball results in a free ball for the opponent, aiming to enhance the game’s pace.
While revisions to the miss rule were prominent among the players’ suggestions, the traditional dress code of snooker players also emerged as a topic of discussion. Many players believe that the current requirement of long-sleeved shirts, waistcoats, and formal footwear should be relaxed to align with modern preferences.
When asked the same question, Mark Allen emphasized the need for a more relaxed dress code. Luca Brecel also highlighted the dress code, alongside the shot clock and the requirement to always hit a cushion, as key areas for potential adjustment.