Snooker: Williams fury over Higgins deal

Mark Williams has tonight criticised the ''preferential treatment'' shown by snooker’s governing body in their award of a three-year promotional contract to John Higgins.

Williams is livid that, as world champion and world number one, he hasn’t been offered the chance of a similar deal by the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association.

''I’m the sport’s number one and yet I haven’t had a sniff,'' blasted the 25-year-old Welshman.

''It is a players association and the members should have the right to vote when big money contracts are being handed out like this.

''It stinks to me and I think it’s a disgrace. I’ve got nothing against John but I don’t think the other players will be happy to see he has signed a contract when no one else has been offered one.''

Williams is contracted to The Sportsmasters Network who plan a rival snooker tour next season.

TSN chairman Ian Doyle speculated earlier this week that Higgins might join the Scottish based internet management company.

But the former world champion finally snubbed TSN yesterday by agreeing a deal to promote the WPBSA and their tournaments.

WPBSA managing director Jim McKenzie said other ''leading players'' would be offered similar contracts in the coming months.

''Why should John get preferential treatment over the others,'' added Williams. ''It’s baffling to me.''

Despite his outburst Williams agreed that: ''The last thing we need is two tours. I think it would be best of both sides could join together for the sake of the game.

''I don’t know if they can do that because they seem to be finding it hard to come to some agreement.''

A statement from the game’s governing body on Williams’ remarks is expected later tonight.