Lisowski growing under mentor Ebdon: “He’s making a big difference”

Jack Lisowski believes he could not have asked for anyone better in his corner than mentor and former World champion Peter Ebdon.

The world number 14 booked his place in the second round of this year’s World Championship after sealing a 10-8 victory over Matthew Stevens on Wednesday.

It was only a third win in six Crucible appearances for Jackpot, who will be aiming to reach the quarter-finals for the first time when he takes on the season’s form player in Neil Robertson.

Although he made two centuries and a further seven breaks over 50, it was far from straightforward for Lisowski.

Indeed, the six-time ranking event runner-up was pulled level by the two-time Crucible finalist from 2-0 and 6-2 up, while a 9-6 advantage was also cut to 9-8 before he eventually scraped over the line.

In attendance in Sheffield was former Crucible king Ebdon, who became Lisowski’s mentor during the UK Championship before Christmas.

Since they linked up, the Cheltenham cueist has reached the quarter-finals in York and the last four of the Welsh Open.

And the 30-year-old feels he is reaping the benefits of working with the 2002 World champion.

“He’s making a big difference,” Lisowski said. “Peter had everything that I’m lacking as a player, so I’m just trying to get that out of him.

“I don’t know if it looks like it’s there yet. It’s going to be a slow process, but I intend on working with him for many years.

“He’s teaching to be a bit more aggressive, but air on the side of caution at the same time. For me, putting that into practise isn’t so easy.

“He’s been there and done it, so when it gets tense before the match and no-one’s speaking; he knows when to lighten the mood and when to be a bit more serious.

“I’m really enjoying it. He’s so good to have around. I couldn’t ask for anyone better in my corner.”