Paul Hunter wants to take a year off from the sport to continue his battle against cancer.

The three-time Wembley Masters champion has dropped from fifth to 34th in the world rankings after winning only one match throughout the past season.

The Leeds professional, 27, was in constant pain and suffered a loss of stamina through ongoing treatment for neuro-endocrine tumours on the inner lining of his stomach.

He wrote to the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA), the game's governing body, asking that his ranking be frozen for a year so that he could continue treatment without having to worry about his career.

"I'm glad I played last season, although for other reasons I wish I hadn't," Hunter said.

"But now it's time to take action, time to say: 'Can I take a year out and get myself better?' I think they will say yes."

The WPBSA constitution would have to be changed to allow such a move, worldsnooker.com reported.

Players will be asked whether they agree with this in principle and then whether they agree with it applying for the current season.

If both resolutions are passed, the WPBSA board will be able to use their discretion in cases of ill health, with Hunter the most obvious case for consideration.

Hunter has entered the Northern Ireland Trophy as a precaution and is scheduled to play his qualifying match next week if his request is turned down.