Snooker’s Second Chance: Carty, Hugill and Steadman Earn World Tour Return
Ashley Carty, Ashley Hugill, and Craig Steadman are heading back to the professional ranks of snooker after a grueling Q Tour Global Play-Offs in Gandia, Spain. The trio secured two-year tour cards, guaranteeing their participation on the World Snooker Tour for the 2026/27 and 2027/28 seasons.
A Triumphant Return for Former Pros
All three players have tasted life on the professional circuit before, and their return highlights the importance of the Q Tour as a pathway back for those who have previously fallen off the tour. Carty first turned professional in 2018, Hugill in 2017, and Steadman as far back as 2009.
Carty’s Dramatic Victory
Ashley Carty’s path to regaining his tour card was particularly dramatic. He navigated a tense semi-final against Peter Devlin, winning 6-5 in a match that went down to the final colours of the 11th frame. His final against veteran Peter Lines was equally captivating, with Carty ultimately prevailing 10-8. “I found it difficult to adjust to the amateur game for the first few months and it is tough financially as well,” Carty explained. “So to acquire back on after the first season, I believe that is where I should be.”
Hugill Overcomes Joyce in Decisive Fashion
Ashley Hugill demonstrated impressive form throughout the playoffs, reaching the final with wins over Luke Pinches and Alfie Davies, even recording a break of 104. He then convincingly defeated Mark Joyce 10-5, showcasing breaks of 99, 98, 85, and 50. Hugill, a former quarter-finalist at the English Open, expressed immense relief, stating he wasn’t sure he could afford another season on the amateur tour.
Steadman’s Experience Shines Through
Craig Steadman, returning after a three-year absence, displayed his experience and composure. He began with a dominant 5-0 victory over Callum Beresford and then secured a hard-fought 6-5 win against Patrick Whelan, highlighted by a 131 break in the deciding frame. Steadman then defeated Stuart Carrington 10-7 in the final, establishing an early 4-0 lead that proved crucial. He noted his enjoyment of the amateur circuit, but emphasized his love for competition.
The Q Tour: A Vital Pathway
The Q Tour Global Play-Offs provide a crucial opportunity for players to earn their place on the World Snooker Tour. Jamie Clarke also earned promotion through the Q Tour, topping the order of merit rankings after the regular season.
Q Tour Global Play-Offs Results
Play-Off 1
Quarter-Finals
Peter Lines 5-1 Oliver Briffett-Payne
Barry Pinches 5-1 Ryan Thomerson
Peter Devlin 5-2 Simon Blackwell
Ashley Carty 5-3 Hayden Staniland
Semi-Finals
Peter Lines 6-5 Barry Pinches
Ashley Carty 6-5 Peter Devlin
Final
Ashley Carty 10-8 Peter Lines
Play-Off 2
Quarter-Finals
Daniel Womersley 5-4 Andrew Higginson
Mark Joyce 5-3 Ismail Turker
Alfie Davies 5-3 Sean O’Sullivan
Ashley Hugill 5-1 Luke Pinches
Semi-Finals
Mark Joyce 6-2 Daniel Womersley
Ashley Hugill 6-3 Alfie Davies
Final
Ashley Hugill 10-5 Mark Joyce
Play-Off 3
Quarter-Finals
Craig Steadman 5-0 Callum Beresford
Patrick Whelan 5-0 Alan Whitfield
George Pragnell 5-0 Hasanain Khalid Alsultani
Stuart Carrington 5-3 Alex Millington
Semi-Finals
Craig Steadman 6-5 Patrick Whelan
Stuart Carrington 6-5 George Pragnell
Final
Craig Steadman 10-7 Stuart Carrington
FAQ
Q: What is the Q Tour?
A: The Q Tour is a series of events that provides a pathway for amateur players to earn a place on the World Snooker Tour.
Q: How many tour cards were awarded at the Q Tour Global Play-Offs?
A: Three tour cards were awarded at the Play-Offs, with an additional card awarded to Jamie Clarke for topping the Q Tour order of merit.
Q: How long are the tour cards valid for?
A: The tour cards are valid for two seasons: 2026/27 and 2027/28.
Did you know? Peter Lines’ semi-final victory over Barry Pinches lasted nearly seven hours, making it the longest semi-final in Q Tour Global Play-Offs history.
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