Thai Rocket in the hunt for second Snooker Shoot Out success

Former champion Thepchaiya Un-Nooh is hoping to make his family proud after once again enjoying a strong start to the Snooker Shoot Out.

The Thai potter is one of the fastest players on tour and suits playing against the shot-clock, reigning supreme in the tournament two years ago.

His bid to become the first player to win the title twice has started on the front foot with victory over John Higgins taking him into Sunday’s final day.

But he’s had to do it behind closed doors with fans not permitted to watch in Milton Keynes due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Life in the bubble brings its own challenges with time away from family among the most significant for Un-Nooh.

“It’s a hard time for me, last time I took my family to watch this event but I can’t bring them this year,” he told Eurosport.

“It’s just me, hopefully they’re watching on the TV and I can make them proud.

“I felt really, really good. On the first day I was nervous and excited, the heart-rate was building.

“The second game was calmer, I stayed focused and potted a good opening red and opened up a lead.

“This event is one where I get close to winning the trophy, the restricted time is more my normal speed.”

Watch the Snooker Shoot Out live on Eurosport and Eurosport app https://www.eurosport.co.uk/snooker/