Higgins welcomes big break of Russian involvement

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THE grand final of the world series of snooker will be held in Moscow – and Scotland’s two-time world champion John Higgins believes the involvement of Russian backers can only benefit the sport.

The world series confirmed that a long-term agreement has been signed which will keep the grand final of the series in Moscow.

IMM Group, responsible for the development and explosion of tennis in Russia through the Kremlin Cup, believes there is the same potential in snooker due to its accelerating popularity within the region.

Stirling-based Pat Mooney, chief executive of the world series, revealed a business partnership has been formed between the two organisations forming a Russia-based company to manage and promote the showcase event. Higgins has been playing a major role in driving forward the series.

He said: “This type of relationship with Russia has not done Chelsea any harm and we are looking forward to the potential this offers the game for years to come.

“This is exactly the type of opportunity we believed existed when we first discussed the concept of the world series of snooker.

“While I knew snooker was popular in these regions, I really did not know just how big.

“The commercial potential this brings to both the players and the game itself is incredible.”

Higgins won the opening leg of the world series in Jersey, beating Mark Selby 6-3 while Graeme Dott thrashed another former world champion, Shaun Murphy, 6-1 in Berlin.