Zhao Xintong became the first amateur to reach the second round of the World Snooker Championships after beating last year's finalist Jak Jones 10-4 on Monday.

For Zhao, who will face compatriot and fellow giant killer Lei Peifan next, it is a road to redemption after the 28-year-old served a 20-month ban for breaching betting regulations.

As a result he is playing as an amateur in Sheffield, although he will return to the professional circuit next season.

Lei beat 2024 champion Kyren Wilson on Saturday but Jones believes Zhao can go all the way and secure a historic success as he bids to become the first amateur and Chinese world champion.

"I don't see anyone who is playing better than him," said Jones. "If he wins it, I wouldn't be surprised at all and that would be good for the game."

Zhao's victory means there will be at least four Chinese players in the last 16, a new record.

Zhao said having to battle through four qualifying rounds to earn the right to play in the main event had shaken off some of the rust he felt through lack of big tournament play.

"Overall I'm pleased with my performance, especially in terms of scoring," said Zhao. "This match was about regaining confidence. I won't be back on tour until next season, so every match I play now is very important."

Zhao, who also reached the last 16 in 2022, is taking nothing for granted against Lei. Their match is spread over three days beginning on Friday. "Lei has played brilliantly and has shown he's capable of winning titles," said Zhao.

In other matches, Fan Zhengyi fell to Mark Allen 10-6, while Mark Williams staged a remarkable comeback to overcome Wu Yize 10-8. Xiao Guodong achieved only his second-ever victory at the Crucible by defeating Matt Selt 10-4.

Meanwhile, 2016 runner-up Ding Junhui held a 6-3 lead over Crucible debutant Zak Surety after the first session of their opening round match. Ding and Surety will resume their contest in the second session later on Tuesday, with the winner set to face either the 2023 champion Luca Brecel or Ryan Day.