Adam Williams presents his prediction for the World Snooker Championship match.
Neil Robertson and Chris Wakelin begin their match in the afternoon session on the opening day of the World Championship.
Neil Robertson
The 43-year-old ‘Thunder from Down Under’ currently occupies ninth place in the world rankings. The 2010 World Champion sits seventh in the all-time list of title winners with 25 trophies to his name. One of snooker’s finest break builders, Neil Robertson became the first player to compile more than 100 century breaks in a single season in 2014. Robertson has amassed a total of 980 centuries, placing him fourth on the all-time list of century makers, trailing only Judd Trump, John Higgins, and Ronnie O’Sullivan. Neil has exhibited significantly improved form this season. Following a slump last year, Robertson triumphed at the English Open and World Grand Prix, and reached the semi-finals of the Champion of Champions and Players Championship tournaments.
Chris Wakelin
The 33-year-old Englishman is set to appear at the Crucible for the fourth time in his career. However, across his previous three visits, Chris has failed to record a single victory at the Theatre of Dreams. Having debuted on the tour in 2013, Wakelin entered the top 16 this season and participated in the Masters for the first time, a feat achieved largely thanks to his performance at the International Championship, where Chris reached the final, losing 10-7 to Ding Junhui. Wakelin also reached the semi-finals of the English Open, earning a considerable number of ranking points. Towards the end of the season, Chris was unable to maintain his position within the top 16 and was forced to contest qualifying matches to secure his place at the Crucible. In his first match, Chris confidently dispatched Xing Zihao 10-5, compiling nine substantial breaks. In his second match, Wakelin comprehensively defeated Martin O’Donnell 10-2. Wakelin’s assured performances aided him in easily navigating the qualification process, allowing him to focus on preparing for his match against Robertson.
Neil Robertson vs Chris Wakelin Prediction
Both players are enjoying commendable seasons. Following a disappointing campaign last year, Neil has re-established himself, securing two tournament victories. Wakelin, meanwhile, has entered the top 16 for the first time in his career. Robertson has often struggled at the World Championship following a strong season, and Wakelin represents a far from straightforward opponent. We do not anticipate an easy victory for Neil; we expect Wakelin to mount a strong challenge and provide a tense conclusion to this match.
