Shaun Murphy has fiercely defended the Crucible Theatre following criticism from Iranian player Hossein Vafaei.
Vafaei had slammed the facilities at the iconic Sheffield venue, claiming it “stinks” and needs a “lick of paint”.
However, Murphy, the 2005 world champion, hit back at Vafaei, saying it was “sacrilege” to slag off the “Home of Snooker”.
“This is holy ground for snooker players and Hossein should remember that,” said Murphy.
“He said he doesn’t want to come back. Don’t come back. He doesn’t have to. He’s not forced to come here. Don’t come.”
Murphy also argued that the Crucible’s small size is part of its charm.
“I don’t want the snooker to leave here. I don’t think we should have any other event here,” he said.
“The World Championship, in my opinion, should stay in this building.”
However, Murphy admitted that the Crucible is in need of some updating.
“It can’t carry on as it is,” he said.
“I’m sure that’s already being talked about. But I don’t think any of us want to leave apart from Hossein and Ronnie O’Sullivan.”
“I think everyone else wants it to stay. But it can’t stay as it is and something will have to give.”
