Carter: Snooker WC up for grabs

England's Ali Carter believes that the unique format of next week's PTT-EGAT Snooker World Cup increases the chance of a shock winner.

The new tournament, which runs from July 11-17 in Bangkok, sees 20 two-man teams battling for a top prize of $200,000. Matches in the initial group phase will be over five frames, including a doubles frame with alternate shots.
The top two teams in each five-team group then progress to quarter-finals.
Carter, who teams up with Mark Selby for England, said: "It's a new format for all of us. I've never played doubles with alternate shots before and it will take some getting used to.
"You might see some surprise results.
"England, Scotland, Wales and China are going to be the favourites but there are a lot of other teams with a chance.
"Mark Allen and Gerard Greene for Northern Ireland is a strong team because they are both great potters and that's what you need in short matches. And the two Thai teams will be dangerous because they will have the home support and they're used to the conditions there.
"It's exciting to be playing in a team event as it's something I've never done before. I've got a very strong partner in Mark Selby and we both know the other will be giving everything to win.
"I had a poor record in Asia until last season when I won the Shanghai Masters. I've got more confidence playing out there now and I know I can win tournaments.