Ding Junhui believes the future is bright for snooker in China as the country’s A and B teams look make it through to the final at the World Cup in Wuxi.

Ding has teamed up with Liang Wenbo for the tournament in his home town in Jiangsu province, but the duo are not yet guaranteed progression through to the quarter-finals.

The pair are currently placed second in Group B, one point better off than Hong Kong in third, who they meet in the final group match on Friday.

The China A team could still potentially top the group if leaders Belgium fail to overcome Ireland and that would set up a last-eight meeting with Zhou Yuelong and Yan Bingtao of the China B team.

Zhou and Yan have already ensured qualification as they wrapped up Group A with a win over Malaysia to claim second place behind Wales.

Ding admitted he is almost hoping for second spot which would see them face Wales in the next round and avoid their fellow countrymen until the final on July 9.

The 30-year-old has praised the strength and depth of talent in China and feels it bodes well for the future.

Ding said: “It’s still growing up. Many, many young players. They are becoming stronger and they’re playing well.

“I believe that the top 32, half will become Chinese players.”