The World Snooker Tour (WST) has come under fire after denying ticket-holders refunds for the Saturday afternoon’s session, which was scheduled to be the culmination of Ronnie O’Sullivan’s semi-final with Zhao Xintong. However, after the Chinese potter won 17-7 with a session to spare, no competitive play will take place inside the Crucible during that period.

Supporters buy tickets to each individual session in Sheffield, running the risk of their match(es) being cancelled if a player wins far earlier than expected. But even though no tournament play will commence during Saturday afternoon's session, fans will not receive their money back as per the terms and conditions of their purchase.

Instead, the WST are putting on an exhibition match between Steve Davis and Dennis Taylor. Commemorating the 40th anniversary of their famous ‘black ball final’ in 1985, the two former world champions will take to the Crucible stage to entertain those in attendance.

That exhibition will start at 2.30pm, after the first of a double-header between Judd Trump and Mark Williams, and run until approximately 4pm. It takes place instead of the scheduled O’Sullivan vs Zhao tie.

A WST statement explained, however, that those uninterested in the affair will not be able to get their money back: “As explained in our box office terms and conditions, we are unable to offer ticket refunds or exchanges. We hope you enjoy the show!”

But fans on social media are furious that refunds are not being offered, complaining to the WST that those who paid to watch a World Championship semi-final should be given their money back if they do not want to attend the exhibition.

On X (formerly known as Twitter), @grease34 wrote: “Those T&C's are a disgrace. Any cancelled sporting event would just refund the tickets. Dennis and Steve will be brilliant I'm sure but you'd never pay best part of £100 to watch an exhibition.”

Meanwhile, @ChrisDSmyth echoed their sentiments and compared the scenario to other sports, adding: “Trying to think if any other sport treats fans this badly in these circumstances. If a [cricket] Test match finishes in three days they don't roll out the commentators on Day 4 for £110 a pop. If a baseball / hockey playoff series is a sweep they don't have the cheerleaders play for fun.”

@_Lina_Marie similarly wrote: “Those people paid for a semi-final session which now isn't happening and instead of offering a refund you add insult to injury. Classic. Be proud.”

Many similar complaints followed as @PeteJenks150097 said: “No offence to the fellas involved but that’s not what’s been paid for and I for one would be gutted to have to watch this, it’s just not the same. Feel for the people who will be.”

The WST terms and conditions explicitly state: “We regret that tickets cannot be exchanged or refunded after purchase, except in the case of a materially altered or cancelled performance/event.”