Snooker: 'Dechawat Poomjaeng can win title,' says Ding Junhui

Ding Junhui has claimed his "crazy" friend Dechawat Poomjaeng can prove he is far from a one-match wonder by landing the World Championship title.

The manner of the Thai newcomer's stunning debut win against world No 5 Stephen Maguire – during which his antics such as applauding his own shots and joking with the crowd attracted attention – remained the talk of the Crucible, and Ding knows him well as both men live and practise in Sheffield.

He said: "I knew that he would have a chance because I know he's a strong player and he likes to fight for every ball.

"Also, he's crazy, a funny guy. He's crazy all the time. It wouldn't be a surprise to me if he won the title."