The opening salvo at the Crucible Theatre saw Zhao Xintong from the Chinese mainland storm into a 2-0 lead, courtesy of classy breaks of 60 and 62 in his first-ever World Snooker Championship semifinal session.
Seven-time world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan from England hit back immediately, compiling three half-century breaks to turn the tables and lead 3-2 by the mid-session interval.
Frames six and seven were shared, setting the stage for a tense finale. Zhao responded with a stunning run of 86 to level proceedings at 4-4, leaving the contest wide open as they head into Friday's second session.
In the other semifinal, home favourite and world number one Judd Trump holds a 5-3 advantage over three-time champion Mark Williams after eight frames.
With momentum swinging every frame, the Crucible is delivering drama worthy of its legendary status, and a thrilling finish is on the horizon.
Reference(s):
Zhao Xintong, O'Sullivan tied at 4-4 at World Snooker Championship
cgtn.com
