»Lisowski looks to shine on home turf,
GLOUCESTERSHIRE’S Jack Lisowski is preparing for a whirlwind two weeks which will see him play in Budapest and Berlin before returning to his roots for the Coral World Grand Prix.
With so much to think about it’s perhaps not surprising he got lost on the way to the press conference to promote the tournament in Cheltenham. “I took a wrong turn getting here,” he admitted.
Lisowski, who grew up in Churchdown and went to Chosen Hill School, starts his campaign on Tuesday night and described the opportunity to play just two minutes drive from his home as “crazy”.
The 27-year old will be joined by the likes of Mark Selby, John Higgins and reigning champion Ronnie O’sullivan as they compete for the £100k prize.
The tournament, previously played in Preston, moves to Cheltenham Racecourse this year and Lisowski was surprised when he found out.
“It’s crazy. I couldn’t believe it. I never thought there would be a tournament here,” Lisowski said.
“There have been more people than ever asking for tickets. That is understandable. It is my home town.
“There is going to be a lot of local support and I hope that can spur me on to try my best. I really hope I can have a good run. It is such a classy venue. I’m really excited now.”
Lisowski, who lost to Neil Robertson in his first ranking final at the Riga Masters in July, will be dreaming of a first ranking title in the area where he learnt his trade.
“I played in Westgate Snooker Club in Gloucester, which is only 15 minutes away, and I live in Churchdown, so this is so local to me. That’s where I spent my junior years.”
Lisowski was beaten 6-1 by Ding Junhui in his Masters debut at Alexandra Palace, but is enjoying his most consistent season on the tour.
The World Grand Prix marks the first stage of the brand new Coral Series, which also encompasses the Players Championship and the Tour Championship.
The 32-man field will be cut in half for each with the following events hosting 16 and eight players respectively, all based from this season’s one-year money list with each player starting the campaign with the same chance of qualification.
Lisowski is relishing the opportunity to try and progress in the series.
“I’m currently in seventh place, so I have a realistic shot of getting into the Players Championship,” he said.
“Hopefully, if I can do well, then I can hold on for the top eight and reach the Tour Championship.
“As a player it gives you an incentive because the rewards are there. It just makes me want to work even harder.
“This is a great time to be a snooker player. I’m finding the tour so much more enjoyable now.
“Two years ago I was struggling. I was trying to qualify for the tournaments, but I wouldn’t even get in.
“As a result I often missed out on going to China and all of these cool places. You don’t feel involved.
“However, I haven’t lost a qualifier for a long time. I’ve been in every tournament and I’m enjoying it.”