Shaun Murphy’s poor form continued after he suffered yet another first round exit in a ranking event this season.

Last week saw the former 2006 world champion reach the semi-finals of the Champion of Champions – but that was a rare light shining during what has been a struggling time for the world number 10.

Murphy’s 4-2 loss to Sam Baird on Tuesday was, unbelievably, his FIFTH first round exit in a ranking event this season.

His other early exits have come in the World Open, Paul Hunter Classic, European Masters and International Championship.Murphy also ended last season on a bad note losing in the first round of the World Championship to Jamie Jones.

As far as the one-year list goes for the 2018/19 campaign, Murphy has only won around £19,500 so far this season putting him in a lowly 54th place.

Shaun Murphy. Picture by Monique Limbos

This means that, as things stand, his places in this season’s World Grand Prix, Players Championship and the all new Tour Championship, which will feature the top eight players from the one year list towards the end of March, are certainly not guaranteed.

Murphy will hope to get back on track in the UK Championship – a tournament which he reached the final last year and traditionally has big money up for grabs.

Meanwhile, the second day of the Northern Ireland Open saw a routine win for newly crowned Champion of Champions winner Ronnie O’Sullivan as well as victories for the likes of Mark Selby, Jack Lisowski and Judd Trump.

The second round matches begin today with all eyes on defending champion Mark Williams who faces a tough battle against Ali Carter. The match is scheduled to begin at 1pm.

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