England's chances of retaining the Nations Cup were dealt another blow today when skipper Ronnie O'Sullivan ruled himself out of the final game in the group stages. O'Sullivan had already withdrawn from this afternoon's showdown with the Republic of Ireland because of a back problem. And now the 25-year-old Essex professional has reluctantly scratched from Wednesday's final match in the round robin section against Northern Ireland.
“Ronnie's back injury has so far failed to respond to treatment and his physio has advised him not to play on Wednesday,” said a spokesman for World Snooker. A decision on his participation in the semi-finals - should England reach that stage - will be made later in the week.
Nottingham professional Anthony Hamilton, the world number 11, will deputise for the China Open, Champions Cup and Regal Masters winner in both games.
O'Sullivan's injury initially occurred in the Far East last month while having a massage at the tournament hotel.
Filed by Sinéad Kissane
