Foul play suspected as Shanghai final incident probed

The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association has confirmed that it has launched an inquiry into events in the 17th frame, when Williams laid a snooker for Selby.

Williams led the best-of-19-frames match 9-7 and was 48-5 ahead in the 17th, closing in on victory.

The Welsh potter was convinced that Selby fouled in escaping from the snooker, insisting he struck the pink, but referee Eirian Williams determined the English cueman had flicked a red first.

Slow-motion replays were inconclusive and there was no freeze-frame option available at the tournament. Williams went on to lose the frame and the match, as Selby fought back, and said in the aftermath: “I was robbed. The referee made such an appalling decision. It was plain to see that he hit the pink. We didn’t need to play it back. We should get Stevie Wonder to referee next time.”

WPBSA chairman Jason Ferguson will lead the inquiry along with former referee Alan Chamberlain, with finalists Williams and Selby and referee Williams to give statements.

Ferguson said: “I want to make very clear from the outset that this inquiry is not part of any disciplinary procedure and has no effect on the outcome of the match. Mark Selby is a deserving champion and won the match fair and square.

“Our rules state that any decision by the referee is final. However, through this inquiry we will look to establish tighter guidelines for referees.”