Kyren Wilson finds his rhythm at the English Open: Neil Robertson stunned by world No. 117 Luo Zetao

Kyren Wilson’s difficult season showed clear signs of life when he eased past Mateusz Baranowski of Poland to reach round two of the English Open in Brentwood. Just days after losing to Liam Highfield in the last 32 of the British Open in Cheltenham, Wilson delivered a composed performance, holding off Baranowski with two consecutive half-centuries. Next up for Wilson is Chang Bingyu, the recent Wuhan Open winner and one of the most confident players on the circuit. The real shock of the opening day came when Neil Robertson, a two-time English Open winner, lost 4-3 to Luo Zetao, a player ranked 117th in the world. Robertson could not handle Luo’s patient tactical play and sharp finishing at crucial moments. Luo’s victory is another sign of the growing depth of Chinese snooker. Chris Wakelin also advanced after another deciding-frame battle, this time against Louis Heathcote. Zhang Anda and Ding Junhui both won their opening matches as well, strengthening the Chinese presence in the tournament. Wilson’s win was less about brilliant potting and more about intelligent match management. He waited for the right chances, played sensible safety shots and refused to rush his attacking options. That discipline was missing in his recent matches and its return is a promising signal ahead of the meeting with Chang Bingyu. For Robertson, the defeat raises uncomfortable questions. The Australian remains a world-class talent, but against determined outsiders he has often struggled to control the tempo. Luo Zetao took full advantage of every loose shot and finished the match with the composure of a seasoned winner. The English Open has already delivered drama, emotion and a reminder that rankings do not decide matches. Wilson is trying to rebuild. Luo is trying to prove he belongs. The next rounds will show which side of the story continues.