World Snooker Bet of the Day: Promising Wilson can make his mark

Paul Krishnamurty
20 April 2014

Ricky Walden looks a vulnerable favourite against a dangerous qualifier

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Ricky Walden reached a career peak by reaching last year's semi-finals, but Paul Krishnamurty reckons he's a poor value favourite this time around against a highly promising Crucible debutant...

"Wilson cuts a similar figure to last year's star qualifier Michael White, who reached the quarter-finals on debut."

Perhaps the most interesting qualifier in this year's first round draw is a 22 year-old who has already won four matches to get here, culminating with the notable scalp of former champion and three-times finalist Graeme Dott. The manner of Kyren Wilson's victories - such as 10-3 thrashings of experienced types Rod Lawler and Alfie Burden - means he should arrive for his Crucible debut oozing with confidence.

The last week isn't the first time Wilson has caught the eye. He's won a stack of matches in PTCs during his first two seasons on the main tour and reached a ranking quarter-final at the Shanghai Masters. In those respects, Wilson cuts a similar figure to last year's star qualifier Michael White, who reached the quarter-finals on debut.

Just as White was fortunate to be pitched against a vulnerable seed in Mark Williams, Wilson has one of this year's better draws. Ricky Walden had never won a match at the Crucible until last year, and without wishing to detract from his run to the semi-finals, it must be noted that it didn't involve beating any seeds.

Of course at this moment in time, Ricky's greater pedigree warrants strong favouritism, but there may be little to choose between them in the not too distant future. I recommend a dual betting strategy, first on Wilson to win the eight frames required to land the 2.5 frame handicap plus a smaller bet to win the match at 3.55/2.

Recommended bets

Back Kyren Wilson 2u @ 3.5 to beat Ricky Walden
Back Kyren Wilson 5u @ 2.04 to win the 2.5 frame handicap

Note: As these bets are published early, when liquidity is still weak, prices are a guide based on odds comparison websites.

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