Cue man Ashley set for UK Championships

The Rotherham potter's only previous appearance in the game's second biggest tournament ended in a 6-1 beating at the hands of Barry Hawkins as an amateur.

Four years on, Carty is older and wiser and has made a sure-footed start in the professional ranks.

He's been drawn against world number 19 David Gilbert and the 23-year-old has no complaints with the draw.

“It is the first time I have played Gilbert,” said Ashley. “He was ranked 34 at the start of the season but he won a final in China and he's played well this season. He would be a good scalp and I think it is better to play someone like him who is new to the higher rankings than a player who has been top of the rankings all his life. He's not quite as experienced.”

Carty, from Thurcroft and backed by local firm Celtic Surveys, lost 4-0 to Kurt Maflin in the Northern Ireland Open in Belfast recently but has been cueing well in practice, good enough to believe he could have a good run in the UK finals, being held as usual at the Barbican in York.

“It's all about what happens on the day,” added Ashley. “If I play like I'm capable of playing than I can beat any player, it's up to me.

“Once you get a good win, it gives you confidence and you can get some momentum in a tournament.”

Ashley's match is scheduled to begin at 7.30pm.