Iranian Vafaei to replace O’Sullivan in World GP
Iranian Hossein Vafaei will replace snooker great Ronnie O’Sullivan at the upcoming World Grand Prix in Hong Kong after the seven-time world champion pulled out of the event for medical reasons.
The English player was due to face Si Jiahui of China in the opening round on Wednesday, but will now be replaced by Vafaei, who is 33rd in the Johnstone’s Paint One-Year Rankings and will be placed directly in the draw and will play the Chinese opponent.
The tournament features the leading 32 players of the season so far and will run from March 4th to 9th, staged in Hong Kong for the first time.
“It’s a real shame that Ronnie is not able to play at the moment and I wish him all the best,” Vafaei said, adding: “I am thrilled to have this opportunity to travel to Hong Kong and compete in such a big tournament. It is a huge and exciting event for all the players.”