Gunnell gunning for elite spot
Shropshire snooker ace Adrian Gunnell believes he could mount a charge into the elite top 32 before the end of the year.
Shropshire snooker ace Adrian Gunnell believes he could mount a charge into the elite top 32 before the end of the year.
The 34-year-old from Telford has the chance to further enhance what is becoming a profitable season when he meets Joe Swail in the first round of the final stages of the Welsh Open at Newport on Monday.
And Gunnell knows a strong finish to the season could see him eclipse his highest ever world ranking of 33. "It's been going quite well and I'm 39th at the moment which I'm pleased with because I thought I'd struggle to move up this season," he admitted.
"It's going to come down to the World Championships but if I got to the Crucible then I'd have a chance of moving into the top 32.
"That's what I'm looking ahead to, but now I'm looking forward to the Welsh Open.
"I've been playing some good players in practice but my game's been very solid. I've just been keeping things tight and taking my chances when they come along.
"I think it's the extra confidence of having some quality practice and knowing I've got something to call on when it's needed."
Should Gunnell defeat Swail he will meet another Irishman, Ken Doherty, in round two on Tuesday.