Liang Wenbo. Picture by Monique Limbos

LIANG Wenbo has been fined £8,000 by World Snooker for bringing the game into disrepute following his conduct during a PTC match.

Playing in the Paul Hunter Classic event in Germany earlier this season, Wenbo conceded his match against Mark Selby after disagreeing with the referee over a decision which had been upheld.

Wenbo left the arena in disgust before later returning where he then verbally abused the referee in front of the crowd while matches were still in play.

The China star was found guilty of breaching WPBSA rules which state:

1.1 Members shall, at all times (i.e. whether at a Tournament or not), behave in a proper and correct manner consistent with their status as professional sportsmen and
1.2 A Member shall not make or cause to be made any statement or commit or cause to be committed any act which in the reasonable view of the WPBSA is likely to bring into disrepute the games of snooker and/or billiards.

He also broke a players contract rule which states: “The player shall not concede a frame in a match unless snookers are required.”

Wenbo admitted the breaches and apologised for his behaviour. As well as the £8,000 fine, he was ordered to pay an additional £500 towards hearing costs.