Judd Trump reached the second round of the Welsh Open – but it so easily could have been a different story.

Judd Trump. Picture by Monique Limbos

The world number three looked to be heading for a shock first round defeat when his opponent Duane Jones just needed the final colours to clinch what would have been the biggest win of his career.

But a missed yellow with the rest handed Trump a huge reprieve as he then potted the remaining balls to clinch the final frame decider to win 4-3.

Trump has suffered a frustrating start to 2018 and is hoping to return to form in this week’s Welsh Open. His next opponent will be either Noppon Saengkham or Ross Muir.

Meanwhile, Ding Junhui quickly got over his World Grand Prix final defeat on Sunday by thrashing Hammad Miah 4-0.

World number one Mark Selby avoided a shock first round exit by beating Christopher Keogan 4-2, hitting two century breaks in the process.

Masters winner Mark Allen came through a tough first round match against Scottish Open finalist Cao Yupeng winning 4-2.

And 18-year-old Yan Bingtao came back from 3-1 down to beat Jimmy White in a final frame decider.

World Snooker has also announced World Grand Prix winner Ronnie O’Sullivan will receive a bye into the second round as his first round opponent Robin Hull has been forced to withdraw from the competition.

Day two of the Welsh Open will see Welshman Mark Williams in action as well as other top players including Luca Brecel, Kyren Wilson, Shaun Murphy and John Higgins.