Crucible qualifiers set to begin with eclectic mix of hopefuls in action

Among the players included is 14-year-old Ukrainian, Iulian Boiko, who praised reigning champion Judd Trump (pictured) but added: “I like the way Trump plays, I like his style of play, but the technique itself is quite clumsy.”

Six former finalists and a brash 14-year-old who has described Judd Trump’s style as “clumsy” are among the 128 players who will begin the quest to reach this year’s World Snooker Championship on Tuesday.

Ukrainian Iulian Boiko, who will become the youngest ever player in the qualifiers, has already secured a two-year tour card and proclaimed his desire to emulate Ronnie O’Sullivan and become the dominant player of his era.