Kyren Wilson and Zhao Xintong were forced to leave the table at the Shanghai Masters due to a bizarre technological malfunction. An issue with the scoreboard prompted an unusual halt in play which left both players looking confused. The issue could not be resolved immediately and thus both players had to leave the table during their semi-final clash, and the walkout left those in attendance – and in the commentary box – baffled.
The incident occurred in the 10th frame whilst Zhao led. The Chinese star split the colours well to take an early 23-0 lead, but he then missed a simple black off spot and play halted – which was when the technical problems quickly became apparent.
The scoreboard was shown to be malfunctioning. Neither player immediately spotted the problem but soon became aware of the issue. Zhao and Wilson were then asked if they would be willing to continue playing by the referee, despite the malfunction.
Wilson explained that he felt play should be paused as it was not just an issue for the players, but also those watching in the crowd who would be unaware of the actual score. The referee then informed the tour director of his decision and both players walked out.
TNT Sports commentator Dave Hendon quickly made it clear that it was far from the ideal time for an issue of this nature to arise, saying: “It’s no good this, is it? Let’s be honest. This is a big, big match and the players just want to play it. I’m now hearing, ‘bring them off’. Well, they’re going. The thing is, this is not between frames, there’s been a session that’s finished.
“So why isn’t the scoreboard working for the next session? I don’t think it’s unreasonable to ask that. But for now, the players have gone off, and hopefully the delay won’t be too long.”
Wilson went on to secure an impressive 10-5 win over Zhao, putting an end to the reigning world champion’s 26-match winning run. The Cyclone last tasted defeat in November when he was beaten by Shaun Murphy in the UK Championship and will face Ali Carter in Sunday’s final.