England’s Judd Trump says he must get off to a fast start as he prepares to take on countrymen Gary Wilson in the semi-finals of the World Championship.

Wilson has claimed some huge scalps this week after beating Luca Brecel, Mark Selby and Ali Carter. He has shown he has the stamina to compete, with final frame against Brecel finishing as the longest frame in Crucible history after 79 minutes of nail-biting action.

Trump has found life a little easier after overcoming Thepchaiya Un-Nooh, Ding Jinhui and Stephen Maguire. He recorded a 13-6 win over Maguire on Wednesday as he booked a place in the final four for the fourth time.

‘The Ace in the Pack’ has enjoyed a superb season so far, securing his second Triple Crown at the Masters in January. He has also secured silverware at the Northern Ireland Open and the World Grand Prix but the 29-year-old claims he will not have it all his own way on Thursday.

Trump said: “It was nice to carry on from where I left off against Ding. It was good to be playing with no real pressure out there and fully enjoy it, knowing I had that kind of lead. I also knew it was going to be tough though. It was important for me to get over the line as soon as possible.

“It’s always good to beat anyone comfortably, especially at the World Championship. There’s a long battle ahead, we’re sort of halfway through the tournament now. At any stage in the World Championship, if you can win a match comfortably, it saves energy and mental energy to help get you through the rest of the tournament.

“I’ve always known that Gary Wilson was a good player. I grew up in the same era as him coming through. He’s obviously taken a bit longer, but he has blown everyone away this week. It is important that I get off to a good start in that match.”

Trump’s experience makes him the heavy favourite for the match at 1.14 while punters can back him to reach the final via a 17-10 scoreline at odds of 9.50.