Judd Trump made lightwork of fellow Englishman Ian Burns to book his place in the second round of the International Championship. The world number four, who made it through to the semi-finals in China 12 months ago, was at his scintillating best on Sunday, recording three century breaks as he eased his way past Burns.
Trump, who claimed the title at the European Masters earlier this month, appears to be one of the leading contenders for overall glory this week, and his closing frame of 127 is sure to make his rivals sit up and take notice. Australian Neil Robertson was also a comfortable winner on the opening day of the tournament proper, although he did drop two frames during his victory over Gary Wilson.
The highlight of Robertson’s display was a century break of 122 in the opening frame and he will now face Matthew Selt in round two, after the Englishman saw off world number 25 Michael Holt in his opening match. Other notable winners on day one of the tournament included world number 14, Ali Carter, who has endured a patchy start to the season, but he managed to raise his game as he saw off fellow Englishman Andrew Higginson 6-3.
Chinese youngster Zhang Yong was also victorious and he provided the home support at the Baihu Media Broadcasting Centre with a moment to celebrate, as he won the final five frames of his match with the experienced Alan McManus to progress through to round two.
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