Mark Williams edged past world number 87 John Astley 6-5 to progress to the final stages of the International Championship.

The 2018 World Champion was making his first appearance of the season at the qualifying event in Sheffield. Breaks of 68, 66, 61 and 55 had helped him into a 5-3 advantage this evening. However, a run of 94 kept Astley in touch, before he forced a decider. Williams made a break of 55 on his way to clinching the final frame, with the clock just shy of midnight, to secure his place in Daqing.

Crucible semi-finalist David Gilbert whitewashed James Cahill 6-0 to earn his trip to China. The Tamworth cueman wrapped up proceedings with a top score of 96.

Joe Perry came through with a hard-fought 6-4 win over Joe O’Connor. While Essex cueman Mark King was too strong for Poland’s Adam Stefanow, coming through a 6-2 victor.

Source: World Snooker