Ronnie O'Sullivan's opponent Pang Junxu goes wrong way in big entrance for World Snooker Championship clash

Ronnie O'Sullivan's opponent Pang Junxu made a bit of a gaffe before he had even got to the table for their World Championship first-round clash as he lost his bearings at the Crucible Theatre. The pressure and attention on the match, given it was the first at the Crucible since O'Sullivan's memorable record-equalling seventh world title, could not have been higher so perhaps it was no surprise that Pang struggled to make a clean entrance.

Ad While players dream of slowly ambling down the legendary stairs of the most famous venue in snooker, Pang surprised everyone by zipping off to his left and coming down a side path down into the arena. World ChampionshipRobertson holds off Wu resurgence to lead, advantage O’Sullivan going into evening session5 HOURS AGO «He chose his own route to the table — and why not?!» quipped the perma-jovial emcee Rob Walker as he smiled over at the 23-year-old, who had been directed over to the correct chair by an official.

The stage was finally then set for the reigning world champion, O'Sullivan, to make his grand entrance as he attempts to become the outright record-holder with eight world titles by surpassing fellow legend Stephen Hendry's tally. Unsurprisingly, The Rocket received a huge ovation from the delighted Crucible faithful as he strolled down the — correct — stairs and onto a stage he has shone on so many times in the past.

Eurosport commentator Dave Hendon was among those who found the whole moment entertaining as he gave his assessment while the two players settled down for the session. «Well, from Pang's perspective, let's hope his sense of direction is a bit better here on the table!» he said.