Several prominent snooker players, including Ronnie O’Sullivan, Shaun Murphy, Kyren Wilson, and Mark Selby, have shared their views on a rule they believe should be modified in the sport. During an interview with TNT Sports, top professionals in the game were questioned about the one rule change they would like to see in snooker, and a specific regulation was repeatedly mentioned.
Seven-time world champion O’Sullivan, among others, has advocated for a review of the contentious ‘miss’ rule, which has been a source of frustration for elite players. Currently, under this rule, if a player fails to make contact with the designated ball during a shot, the referee may penalize them with a foul and a miss.
A miss is typically called when the referee perceives that a player chose a more challenging shot instead of an easier escape from a snooker. It can also be enforced if a player underplays a shot, indicating a lack of effort.
When a ‘foul and a miss’ is declared, the opponent of the offending player can decide whether to reset the balls for a reattempt or leave them as is on the table. If repeated calls of ‘foul and a miss’ persist, the player may find themselves continuously reattempting the same shot while their opponent accumulates points without needing to play a shot.
Conversely, the ‘three-miss rule’ dictates that a player who fails to make contact with the correct ball three times in succession automatically concedes the frame to their opponent. This rule has been a subject of debate within the sport, with critics arguing that its enforcement can be inconsistent, leading to game delays and confusion for casual viewers.
When asked about potential changes to the game, O’Sullivan promptly singled out the miss rule, with Wilson echoing his sentiments, suggesting a limit of no more than three misses. Selby also expressed his support for restricting the number of misses allowed, highlighting the disadvantage it can create even for a player in a winning position.
Former world champion Murphy took a different perspective, criticizing the potential manipulation of the miss rule, particularly in allowing deliberate fouls. He proposed revising the foul and a miss rule to eliminate such tactics.
Additionally, current world number three Neil Robertson proposed a reform where failing to make contact with a directly visible red ball would grant the opponent a free ball, aiming to expedite gameplay.
Beyond the miss rule adjustments, concerns were raised by top players regarding the traditional dress code in snooker. The requirement for players to wear long-sleeved shirts, waistcoats, and formal footwear has been a point of contention, with many advocating for a more relaxed attire policy within the sport.
When asked the same question as his peers, Mark Allen emphasized the need to relax the dress code, while Luca Brecel highlighted the importance of revisiting the dress code, shot clock regulations, and the obligation to hit a cushion as key areas for potential enhancements in the sport.
