Root: England’s future is bright despite winter woe

0 England’s Joe Root lies in a crumpled heap following a dropped catch against New Zealand. Ronnie O’sullivan chalked up his 14th maximum 147 break – but was still knocked out in the first round of the China Open 6-2 by Elliot Slessor.

O’sullivan, 42, produced the perfect clearance in the fifth frame to secure the £42,000 prize fund.

However, it was 23-yearold Slessor who progressed, having earlier opened up a 4-0 lead before going on to secure his place in the second round at the expense of the world No 2.

There was also another unexpected result in Beijing, as Chris Wakelin coasted past Shaun Murphy, the world No 7, with a 6-0 victory.

There were mixed fortunes for the Scots. John Higgins beat Martin O’donnell 6-2 and Graeme Dott saw off Mark Joyce 6-2, but Anthony Mcgill lost 6-4 against Luo Honghao, Stephen Maguire was beaten 6-5 by Fergal O’brien and Scott Donaldson lost 6-4 against world No 1 Mark Selby.