Ronnie O'Sullivan's backing for Barry Hearn
Wednesday, 7 April 2010 13:43Ronnie O'Sullivan today urged his fellow snooker stars to 'see sense' and back Barry Hearn's plans for giving the sport a radical makeover.
The world number one gave his firm backing to the new World Snooker chief ahead of the Betfred.com World Championship, which starts on April 17.
Following the Crucible showpiece the players will vote on whether to accept Hearn's reform proposals, which include plans for an extended professional tour with more tournaments.
Critics of the manifesto have suggested it favours the top players, but O'Sullivan is adamant everyone should get behind the veteran promoter, given it is a rare opportunity to bring in fresh ideas.
Hearn today confirmed players would enter the Crucible arena to music of their choice in a break from tradition.
And O'Sullivan is right behind the plans for a revolution. The three-time former world champion insisted: 'It has to be voted through.
'There's a lot of playing opportunities there. In my opinion it has to happen. Whether it does or not we'll have to see but I'm sure the players will see sense.
'If they don't I'm sure Barry won't be hanging around and we're back to square one and it's all over.'
Hearn has already confirmed he will quit his role as chairman of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association if the players throw out his plans.
O'Sullivan said: 'I think sometimes you have to back people and allow people to do what they do.
'We're lucky to have these people involved so whatever they want to do I think you have to back them with a little blind faith.'
Hearn said: 'Players will do what they're going to do and they'll get what they get. If they share the vision they'll get the benefits. If they don't share that's okay.'
