Steve Davis’ Crucible Mishap: A Snooker Legend’s Rare Miss
Teh Uncharacteristic Flub
six-time world snooker champion Steve Davis experienced a moment of unexpected frustration during the BBC’s coverage of the World Snooker Championship at the Crucible. While attempting to demonstrate a challenging shot executed by Shaun Murphy in his match against Judd Trump,Davis found himself unable to replicate the maneuver,leading to a humorous,albeit awkward,on-air moment.
The Context: Trump vs. murphy
The incident occurred during a break in the second-round match between Judd Trump and Shaun Murphy. Trump,trailing Murphy,managed to secure his first frame,narrowing murphy’s lead to 2-1. The frame itself was a protracted affair, lasting 30 minutes, a departure from the typically fast-paced style of both players.
The Shot in Question
Davis identified a pivotal moment in the frame: Murphy’s attempt to escape a snooker. This required a delicate cueing action, applying side spin to the cue ball to alter its trajectory off the cushion while concurrently playing safe.
Did you know?
Applying side spin, also known as “side,” is a technique used to control the angle at which the cue ball rebounds off the cushion. It’s a crucial skill for escaping snookers and positioning the ball for the next shot.
davis’ demonstration and Frustration
Davis initially attempted to explain the shot’s intricacies, stating, What I am going to do is I am going to explain it, which is far more crucial.
He then proceeded to the practice room to physically demonstrate the technique. So he is aiming in this [bottom of the table] direction so once he hits the cushion he has got to, somehow, change the direction of the cue ball, swerve it,
Davis explained, according to the Express. He further illustrated the concept, saying, So if I had my fingers to play the shot [flicks the cue ball around the black] like that, that’s how you do it. Sort of a spinner in cricket.
However, when Davis attempted to execute the shot with a cue, his efforts fell short. After muffing both attempts, he abandoned the demonstration, turning away from the camera in apparent frustration as host Richi persad chuckled.
The Aftermath and Commentary
Persad, attempting to steer the broadcast back on track, remarked, I am trying to stay focused, we are going back to a very critically important match, Shaun Murphy and Judd Trump and… [laughs]… we will have a third go shall we? What a lovely way to spend a Sunday morning.
Davis humorously retorted, I’d rather run the [London] Marathon!
Commentator Dennis Taylor added to the lighthearted atmosphere, jokingly praising the wonderful display
amidst laughter from the broadcast team.
Pro Tip: Mastering the Swerve Shot
To execute a swerve shot effectively, consider these points:
- Apply significant side spin to the cue ball.
- Use a firm, controlled stroke.
- Visualize the desired trajectory and adjust your aim accordingly.
- practice consistently to develop a feel for the shot.
