O'Sullivan loses session 8-0 as Zhao dazzles at Crucible

Zhao Xintong produced a scintillating display of potting to open up a 12-4 lead against seven-time champion Ronnie O'Sullivan in their World Championship semi-final.

With the overnight score at 4-4, Zhao took all eight frames on Friday morning to become only the fourth player to win a session 8-0 against O'Sullivan at the Crucible.

Englishman O'Sullivan, 49, who has made no secret about struggling with his cue since snapping his old one at the Championship League in January, decided to get a new tip and make further changes after Thursday's opening session.

However, it did not have the desired impact as he missed a series of regulation pots against an opponent who punished him in ruthless fashion.

Zhao, a former UK Championship winner who is competing as an amateur, was clinical among the balls and delivered the sort of performance that suggests he may be ready to become the first player from China to take the title in Sheffield.

The 28-year-old compiled breaks of 112 and 115 as well as five other half-centuries to take complete control of the contest, earning a standing ovation from an appreciative Crucible crowd.