World Snooker Final: can Trump halt O'Sullivan's bid for history?

Rocket on course for history

Ronnie O'Sullivan remains on course for a record-equalling seventh world title in the Crucible era. The Rocket will take on Judd Trump in the 2022 World Snooker Championship title decider on Sunday and Monday in Sheffield.

O'Sullivan prevailed in his "Class of '92" semi-final battle with John Higgins 17-11 on Saturday evening, just a couple of hours after Trump clinched a dramatic 17-16 victory over Mark Williams in the other last-four tie. The latter is hoping to add to his previous success in 2019.

Can the Ace come up Trumps?

The mouthwatering showdown for glory between O'Sullivan and Trump is the latest chapter in one of the great modern-day rivalries within the sport. In 29 previous encounters with one another in all competitions, Trump has won 15 to O'Sullivan's 14.

This fixture will also represent the duo's 12th with silverware on the line, and Trump has raised the trophy aloft after eight of their prior finals together. For that reason, the 32 year-old looks more than reasonable value at 2.42.

In this World Championship, the "Ace in the Pack" has shifted through the gears as each round has progressed, producing a top all-round performance to hold off a charging Williams in the penultimate round. That said, he did look mentally drained after what was an epic battle with the Welshman.

King Ronnie VII?

All eyes, of course, will be on O'Sullivan's attempt to match Stephen Hendry's 23-year old record of seven world crowns. The 46 year-old has been in consistent form throughout this competition but has never really been pushed close, so it's difficult to assess how he'd react with his back against the wall.

O'Sullivan, who first played at the Crucible in 1993 and won his maiden world title eight years later, is the 1.68 favourite. The world number one compiled five century breaks during his victory over a misfiring Higgins, helping him to reach an eighth career final at the Crucible.

A close call

In six out of the last eight World Championship finals, at least 32 out of the 35 scheduled frames have been required. Expect this one between two of the sport's most talented players of all time to be just as close, with the over 31.5 frames market at 1.83.

While Trump has won 15 out of the last 18 ranking event finals he's participated in, O'Sullivan has actually lost in six out of his last seven. As the magnitude of the occasion is heightened and with history beckoning, this has the potential to be a classic that goes right down to the wire.

Recommended bets

Trump to win @ 2.42

Over 31.5 frames @ 1.83