Stephen Maguire books Crucible spot after Alfie Burden win

Stephen Maguire sealed automatic qualification for the World Championship at the Crucible later this month by advancing to the semi-finals of the China Open in Beijing.

The Scot defeated Alfie Burden 5-1 to cement his spot in the rankings’ top 16 at the expense of Ding Junhui, who now needs to win three qualifying games in Sheffield next week to confirm his participation in the World Championship.

Ding turned 29 on the day he discovered Maguire’s run to the semi-final meant he now faces a tricky route to the main draw in the Steel City.