Ronnie asked to explain

The former world champion was trailing 4-1 to Hendry in York, but was 24-0 up in the sixth frame when he stunned the crowd by conceding the match, and now world snooker chairman Sir Rodney Walker wants answers.

"We are not frightened of him," confirmed Walker.

"We will take whatever action is appropriate but if there is way in which we can help him refocus, I would rather take that than hit him with a stick.

"At some stage I suppose you begin to run out of patience but I doubt whether we have reached that just yet."

After walking out during the Hendry match, O'Sullivan then refused to attend the mandatory press conference, although he did then issue a statement which apologised for his walk-out.

"I was pleased and relieved that within a short period of time a statement was issued on Ronnie's behalf apologising to the spectators, the viewers, and Hendry for his behaviour," said Walker.

"The players know we are beginning to rebuild the sport but incidents like this do nothing to give sponsors and spectators confidence to invest in it and it should not have happened.

"I am sure the chairman of the disciplinary panel will write to O'Sullivan inviting him to give an explanation."