Holt wins title in Chanthaburi

   Holt's domination of the match was almost total and the battle was brief from all standards. However, there were lessons to be learnt, especially for those aspiring to play professionally in the top flight of world snooker.

   Every minor and major mistake committed by Praprut was dealt with in an equally unrelenting manner, showing when it comes to the professionals from the British Isles nothing can ever be taken for granted.

   The best example came to it in the fifth frame.

   Praprut had scored a break of 63 to enjoy a massive 63-4 advantage, but for a brief moment he decided to try a hand at being a bit cavalier. He attempted to pot a red off the pack, a shot that even the likes of Ronnie O'Sullivan would not have attempted. The outcome was a riveting break of 64 that helped Holt pinch the frame and go 4-1 up. Praprut's chagrin sent a simple message across in the loudest form possible: When it is logical to play it safe, going on the offensive will only lead to suffering.  

   Holt, who had been in a sparkling form throughout the tournament, also taught Praprut another lesson, and that was: When the opportunity comes your way, pounce on it and make the most of it.

   He showed it on two different occasions in an highly entertaining manner when simple miscues by the Thai veteran were converted into major breaks of 115 in the third and 135 points in the sixth frame.

   Holt was richly rewarded for his memorable display in Chanthaburi with the top purse of 100,000 baht, while Praprut earned 50,000 baht for his second place finish. The highest break prize of 15,000 baht went to Stuart Pettman of England for his awesome 142-point run in the last 16 round.

   The sixth and last ranking event of the season is the Thailand National Championship final rounds of which will be played at the JP Emerald Hotel in Yasothorn province on August 20-25.

   Final frame scores: Michael Holt (England) beat Praprut Chaithanasakul 5-1 (77-39, 9-70, 119(115)-1, 63-29, 68(64)-63(63), 132(132)-0)

Agencies