Davis makes Beijing blunder

Steve Davis has missed out on a place in the final stages of the China Open because he did not realise he had to play a qualifying match.

Davis, 48, was due to face Ricky Walden in the final qualifying round but was in Ireland for an exhibition, blissfully unaware he was supposed to be in Prestatyn.

The six-time world champion is ranked 15th in the world and as part of the elite top 16 would not normally have to qualify for ranking events.

However, he is seeded 17th for China because world number 62 Ding Jun Hui won the title last year and is seeded first, while world champion Shaun Murphy is seeded second, even though he is ranked 21st.

It was not immediately clear why Davis was unaware his presence was required in Prestatyn, but he could now face disciplinary action.

Ironically, Davis had to withdraw from his match against Walden in Beijing last season because he suffered a bout of dizziness after banging his head on a steel door shortly before the contest began.

Trailing 2-0, he conceded the match and was taken to hospital, where he was later given the all-clear.

Davis’ absence means Walden goes through to a meeting with UK champion Stephen Maguire.

“I’m a bit gutted because I was looking forward to playing Steve but you have to take any bit of luck that comes your way,” Walden said.

“I had a load of mates coming to watch me and I had to ring them to tell them to turn their cars round.”

“I really enjoyed the experience of going to China so I’m pleased to be there again. It was a great atmosphere out there and the people really love their snooker.”

Former world champion John Parrott also missed out on a trip to Beijing when he was beaten 5-1 by Stoke’s Jamie Cope.