Sanderson Lam has made a flying start to the 2026/27 Q Tour Europe season, claiming the first Q Tour title of his career with a 4–1 victory over Farakh Ajaib in the final at the Northern Snooker Centre in Leeds.

The 32-year-old Englishman produced an outstanding run through a 143-player field, winning seven matches across four days to secure the opening title of the new Q Tour Europe campaign.

It was Lam’s first appearance in a Q Tour event since 2022, having returned to the circuit after dropping off the World Snooker Tour at the end of last season.

‘The Panda’ makes flying start

Known as ‘The Panda’, Lam wasted no time making his mark in Leeds.

He began his campaign with three consecutive 4–0 victories, defeating Kevin Willsher, Billy Castle and Jack Borwick. Across those opening matches, Lam produced six half-century breaks to establish himself as one of the players to beat.

Compatriot Ryan Davies became the first player to take a frame from Lam, but a break of 73 helped the former Scottish Open quarter-finalist progress into the quarter-finals.

There, Lam faced 2023 English Amateur Champion Paul Deaville in a closely fought contest. Deaville battled back from 2–0 and 3–2 down to put the match in the balance, but Lam eventually held his nerve to secure his place in the last four.

Dominant semi-final sets up title clash

Lam then produced one of his best performances of the tournament in the semi-final, defeating former professional Mark Joyce 4–0 to book his place in the final.

Standing in his way was Farakh Ajaib, who had produced an impressive comeback of his own in the semi-finals, recovering from 2–0 down to defeat Pakistan’s Haris Tahir.

The stage was set for a fascinating final between two players determined to begin the new Q Tour season with silverware.

Lam keeps his nerve to lift the trophy

Lam took control of the final early on, opening up a 2–0 lead with an excellent break of 83 in the second frame.

Ajaib responded immediately, reducing the deficit to 2–1 with a break of 60 and threatening to produce another comeback.

Lam, however, remained composed and quickly restored his advantage. Breaks of 52 and 66 saw him move within one frame of the title before another contribution of 64 in the fifth frame completed a 4–1 victory.

The result gives Lam the first Q Tour title of his career and an ideal start to his 2026/27 campaign.

Final Result

Sanderson Lam 4–1 Farakh Ajaib

Lam delighted with his start

Speaking after the final, Lam reflected on the hard work that had gone into his performance and admitted that he felt something had clicked during the tournament.

“I am really happy to get off to a good start. I’ve been working hard on and off the table and I feel like something clicked in the last couple of days – I felt comfortable in the balls and I was confident.”

Lam also highlighted the strength of the modern game and the growing competition coming from players around the world.

“The competition is so tough nowadays on and off the Tour. There are so many good players coming from Europe, China and the Middle East. You’ve got to just concentrate on yourself and I’m happy that the work is paying off.”

With the first Q Tour title of his career now secured, Lam will be hoping this victory can provide the platform for a successful 2026/27 season.

Congratulations to Sanderson Lam from everyone at Pinnacle Sport. 🏆🎱