Several prominent snooker players, such as Ronnie O’Sullivan, Shaun Murphy, Kyren Wilson, and Mark Selby, have shared their viewpoints on a particular rule they believe should be amended in the sport. During an interview with TNT Sports, top professionals in the game were questioned about the one regulation change they would like to see in snooker, with a common suggestion repeatedly raised.
Renowned seven-time world champion O’Sullivan, alongside several other players, has advocated for a review of the contentious ‘miss’ rule, which has been a source of frustration for many elite players. Currently, if a player fails to make contact with the designated ball in a shot and the attempt is considered inadequate, the referee may declare a foul and a miss.
Typically, a miss is called when the referee perceives that the player deliberately chose a more challenging shot instead of an easier option to escape a snooker. It can also be enforced if a player underplays a shot, indicating a lack of effort.
Upon the announcement of a ‘foul and a miss’, the opponent of the player at fault can decide whether to reset the balls for a retake or leave them as is on the table. In scenarios where repeated ‘foul and a miss’ calls persist, the player might find themselves continuously attempting the same shot while their opponent accumulates points without engaging in play.
Contrastingly, the ‘three-miss rule’ dictates that a player who fails to contact the correct ball three consecutive times automatically forfeits the frame to their opponent. This rule has sparked debates within the sport, with critics contending that it can be inconsistently enforced, impede game pace, and create confusion for casual viewers.
When asked about potential changes to the game, O’Sullivan promptly singled out the miss rule, stating, “The miss rule.” Wilson echoed this sentiment, proposing, “Let’s address the miss rule. Limit the misses to no more than three.”
Selby also weighed in on the issue, suggesting a restriction where a player can only miss three times before consequences kick in. He expressed his concern that players could win frames due to opponents repeatedly missing shots, despite being ahead in points.
Former world champion Murphy offered a different perspective, criticizing how the miss rule could be exploited. He highlighted his desire to modify the ‘foul and a miss’ rule, citing instances where it could enable players to intentionally commit fouls for strategic advantage.
Additionally, current world number three Neil Robertson recommended a potential alteration, suggesting a rule that grants the opponent a free ball if a player fails to make contact with a visible red ball directly, aiming to accelerate gameplay significantly.
While revising the miss rule was a primary focus for top snooker players, other suggestions emerged, including a review of the sport’s traditional dress code. The requirement for players to wear long-sleeved shirts, waistcoats, and formal footwear has been a subject of contention, with many advocating for a relaxation of these standards.
When questioned about changes they would implement, Mark Allen emphasized the need to relax the dress code. Luca Brecel highlighted three key areas for potential improvement: the dress code, shot clock implementation, and enforcing the rule of always hitting a cushion for shots.