At the 1987 World Championship, he overcame Pat Houlihan, Paddy Browne, Mark Wildman and Cliff Wilson - whitewashing Wildman 10–0 - to qualify for the first round proper at the Crucible Theatre. Drawn against Alex Higgins, Wright led 4–2 but eventually succumbed 6–10. His results were sufficient for him to finish the season ranked 53rd.