John Higgins thinks top trio can chalk up successes in their 50s

John Higgins believes snooker’s famous ‘Class of 92’ can reign for at least another decade after joining Ronnie O’Sullivan and Mark Williams in the World Championship quarter-finals.

It marks the first time in 11 years that the trio, who began their professional careers together, have reached the last eight at the same time, and the 46-year-old Scot is convinced their sustained success is no coincidence.

After wrapping up a 13-7 win over Noppon Saengkham, Higgins said: “I think it’s incredible that it’s been 30 years and the three of us are better players than we’ve ever been.

“Mark has been playing incredibly and Ronnie is a tougher player to play against now that he’s scrapping for every frame, whereas before he’d maybe have thrown in the towel, which makes him undeniably the best player he’s ever been.”

Asked if Williams (47), O’Sullivan (46) and himself could go on to emulate Jimmy White, who is set to embark on his next season on the tour at the age of 60, Higgins added: “I don’t see any reason why not.

“Mark has already said he’s not going to retire, and Ronnie, who knows? Myself, yes, I probably could.”

I think it's incredible that it's been 30 years and the three of us are better players than we've ever been.- John Higgins on the 'Class of 92'

Having done the damage in Sunday’s evening session when he won seven frames in a row, Higgins won the first upon the resumption to go one frame from victory before Saengkham staged a mini fightback.

The Thai player reduced the deficit to 12-6 then came agonisingly close to a maximum break, reaching 112 before hitting a tough last red into the jaws of the top pocket.

Stuart Bingham also missed out on a maximum as he stepped on the gas to sink Kyren Wilson 13-9 and join the