Ronnie O'Sullivan has been excused from press interview requirements during the Masters at Wembley Arena. It follows a lunch last week with Sir Rodney Walker, the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association chairman. O'Sullivan faces disciplinary action for retiring in the sixth frame of his UK Championship quarter-final in York last month but Walker has undertaken to write to the disciplinary committee.

Stephen Hendry reached his 16th Masters quarter-final by beating Matthew Stevens, the 2000 champion, 6-5. Hendry is aiming to add to his six Masters titles, a run which has earned him selection as the only sportsman among entertainers such as Madonna and Kylie Minogue to have his hands cast for a plaque to feature in a public square in the Wembley development.

Shaun Murphy, the 2005 world champion, beat Steve Davis 6-3. He plays Hendry in the quarter-finals.