Is this an early April Fool?

I certainly hope so …. after reading this piece by WST:

Midnite Brings Neon Green Cue Ball To The Crucible

World Snooker Tour has confirmed the iconic white ball will be replaced by a neon green colour at the 2026 Halo World Snooker Championship.

The new neon green ball will be paying homage to Midnite, the official UK betting and casino partner for the tournament.

The iconic white ball has been involved in every snooker tournament since its inception, but will change to neon green, Midnite’s flagship colour, for the full 17 days at the Crucible.

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World No.2 Kyren Wilson, who won the 2026 Masters, has backed the move, saying:

“I honestly think it’s a fantastic step forward for snooker. The idea of the white ball turning Midnite neon green might sound bold at first, but that’s exactly what our sport needs right now – something that grabs attention and gets people talking.

“We’ve got such a proud history, especially at the World Snooker Championship, but evolution is key if we want to keep growing and bringing in a new generation of fans.

“From a player’s perspective, it’ll be really interesting as well. The visuals are such a big part of how we read the game, so having that bright green cue ball under the lights at the Crucible could actually enhance our game.

“You’ve got to be open-minded about these changes. If it helps showcase the sport in a new way and makes people stop and watch, then that’s a win for everyone. Personally, I’m really excited by it. I think it could give the whole championship a fresh energy and create something quite iconic in its own right.”

Jason Ferguson, Chairman of snooker’s global governing body WPBSA, added:

“Tradition and heritage are so important in our sport but we are also excited by innovation. Fans and players will love this new cue ball which is exclusive to the World Championship.

“This is one of the biggest changes to the equipment in the 150-year history of our sport and it will be fascinating to see this in action at the Crucible.“

Peter Wright, WST’s Chief Commercial Officer said:

“Players are going to have to adapt fast to the new neon cue ball, especially under the intense pressure that the Crucible always brings. This could really change the dynamic of the game and enhance the viewing experience for fans. We know it’s a bold move but we are a sport which thrives on rising to the challenge.”

Andrew Mook, Midnite’s Head of Brand Marketing, commented:

“We’re incredibly proud to be part of such an iconic moment for snooker. Seeing the traditional white ball reimagined in Midnite neon green at the World Snooker Championship is an exciting way to celebrate our partnership with WST.

“This is about bringing a fresh energy to a historic tournament while respecting everything that makes it so special. The Crucible has produced some of the most memorable moments in sport, and to have our brand reflected in such a visible and creative way during those 17 days will be truly special for us.

“We’re passionate about engaging fans in new and innovative ways, and this initiative does exactly that. We can’t wait to see the Midnite neon green ball in play on snooker’s biggest stage.”