Williams through in China

Mark Williams remains on course for a fifth ranking title on Asian soil by reaching the quarter-finals of the Star Group China Open at Beijing University Gymnasium.

Williams whitewashed Scottish qualifier Scott MacKenzie 5-0 to stay in the hunt for the £30,000 (€43,300) top prize.

The laid-back Welshman has won three ranking titles in Thailand and was crowned China Open champion in 2002.

Unlike several other players Williams, who turned 31 earlier this week, has never had a problem adjusting to the time difference or foreign conditions whenever snooker comes to Asia.

“I love coming to play in the Far East and wish we had more tournaments out here,” said Williams, the world number nine.