This Best of 5 frames contest on June 26, 2026, features China's Lyu Haotian against Wales' Jamie Jones. Lyu Haotian is known for his disciplined tactical game and consistent break-building, while Jones is a solid all-rounder with a strong safety game. The short format ensures a high-stakes battle where every frame will be fiercely contested, demanding precision and mental fortitude from both players.

The match is expected to be a tactical affair, with both players prioritizing safety and positional play. Lyu Haotian's methodical approach will be challenged by Jones's resilience and ability to grind out frames. Scoring opportunities will need to be maximized, as prolonged safety exchanges are likely. The match could be characterized by tight frames and strategic battles for control of the table.

Jamie Jones is a consistent break-builder, averaging 0.19 centuries per match, and is adept at converting opportunities into frame-winning clearances. Lyu Haotian, with 0.17 centuries per match, also demonstrates solid scoring, focusing on efficiency and minimizing errors. Both players are capable of compiling substantial breaks, but consistency under pressure will be the key differentiator in this matchup.

Lyu Haotian boasts an excellent safety success rate of 89.0%, making him a formidable opponent in tactical exchanges. He is patient and rarely gives away easy chances. Jamie Jones also possesses a strong safety game, with an 88.5% success rate. This match will likely feature prolonged safety battles, with the player who can consistently gain positional advantage through superior safety emerging with a crucial edge.

• Lyu Haotian: W W L W L
• Jamie Jones: L W W L W

Lyu Haotian and Jamie Jones have met twice, with the head-to-head record standing at 1-1. Their last encounter was a tight 3-2 victory for Lyu Haotian, which went to a deciding frame. This history suggests a very evenly matched rivalry, with both players capable of pushing each other to the brink, making a decider a strong possibility in this upcoming fixture.

• Jamie Jones's average pot success is 90.5%, indicating high efficiency.
• Lyu Haotian's average safety success is 89.0%, showcasing his tactical strength.
• Both players have very similar century-making capabilities, suggesting a close scoring battle.
• The match has a high probability of going to a deciding frame, testing mental resilience.

The tactical themes will be dominated by controlled play, intricate safety exchanges, and strategic break-building. Both players will aim to minimize errors and capitalize on any half-chances. The pace of play is likely to be measured, with an emphasis on positional play and cue ball control. The player who can maintain focus through prolonged tactical battles will have the advantage.

Both Lyu Haotian and Jamie Jones are known for their composure under pressure, having demonstrated their ability to perform in deciding frames. Lyu's methodical approach often serves him well in tight situations, while Jones's resilience allows him to grind out results. A potential decider would be a true test of nerve and skill, with both players having the capacity to deliver under duress.

• Lyu Haotian: Average Pot Success - 89.0%, Average Safety Success - 89.0%, Centuries per Match - 0.17, Long Pot Success - 74.0%
• Jamie Jones: Average Pot Success - 90.5%, Average Safety Success - 88.5%, Centuries per Match - 0.19, Long Pot Success - 75.5%

Our model predicts an incredibly close contest, with both players having a 50% probability of winning, reflecting their evenly matched statistical profiles. The expected total frames played is 4.4, indicating a lengthy and hard-fought match. There is a 45% probability of a deciding frame, highlighting the extreme likelihood of this encounter going down to the wire, promising a thrilling conclusion.

This match is a statistical dead heat, promising a thrilling and unpredictable contest. Both Lyu Haotian and Jamie Jones possess the skills and temperament to win. Expect a tactical battle that is highly likely to go to a deciding frame, where a single error could prove costly.