The number of heavy contacts and balls rolling off line has been the source of frustration, with Swail claiming he had experienced a ‘kick’, the cause of which remains unknown despite extensive research, every other shot.

Now the World Snooker Association has decided to take the unprecedented step of re-clothing the tables, most likely on Sunday morning when no play is scheduled.

“We will re-cover the tables at the weekend,” confirmed tournament director Mike Ganley. “It is being done to give the players the best conditions possible for what is a special event and the longest tournament in the calendar.

“We have listened to what the players have had to say and have taken the feedback on board.

"Therefore, we have decided a re-cover is required.”