Tiptree ace Ali Carter has predicted a battle royale in tonight's snooker showdown between Ronnie O'Sullivan and Jimmy White.

Ali Carter

The big guns are going head-to-head in a Premier League clash - sponsored by the Gazette - at Colchester's Charter Hall. More details here.

Legend White - dubbed The Whirlwind - will tackle Rocket Ronnie in tonight's second match, after world number four Paul Hunter has pitted his wits against Mark Williams who is ranked second in the world.

And 25-year-old Carter, who trains with world number one O'Sullivan, said: "Jimmy and Ronnie will, without doubt, have a great match.

"Ronnie is a strong favourite but has the utmost respect for his opponent. However, Jimmy is more than capable of winning. He undoubtedly still has the talent."

Players are selected from the top-16 rankings and Carter believes it is the competition to be in, when not battling it out in major tournaments.

He said: "It's my aim to try and get involved as soon as possible. At the moment, I'm provisionally world number 17.

"I want to cement my place and get into that competition, because it's perfect for keeping your game in top shape."

See tomorrow's Gazette for an exclusive six-page snooker special featuring reports, reaction and pictures from Charter Hall.

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Published Thursday, January 13, 2005

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