The playing schedule for the 2014 Dafabet World Championship has been announced, with defending champion Ronnie O’Sullivan to play in the opening session.
O’Sullivan will start his bid for a third consecutive title – and sixth in all – at 10am on Saturday April 19 in the first session of the 17-day tournament. His first round match will conclude in the evening session on the same day.
The £1.2million tournament at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield runs until May 5, with 32 players battling for the famous trophy.
Chinese ace Ding Junhui, chasing a record equalling fifth ranking title this season, will start on Sunday April 20 at 2.30pm, with his second session at the same time the following day.
World number two Mark Selby plays in the morning and evening sessions on Monday April 21, while potting ace Judd Trump starts his first round match on the afternoon of Tuesday April 22 and plays to a finish the following morning.
World number one Neil Robertson launches his attempt to win a second Crucible crown on the afternoon of Wednesday April 23, and finishes the following evening.
For the full draw and format see www.worldsnooker.com
A spokesman for World Snooker said: “Now that the line-up of top 16 seeds is confirmed we can see the draw taking shape and it is promising to be a fascinating tournament. There are so many contenders for the title and every day in the first week will see the best players on the planet striving to get past the first hurdle.
“Most sessions are already sold out but fans who want to enjoy the unique Crucible experience should call the box office on 0844 6565147 or visitSheffieldtheatres.co.uk as there are still seats available for certain matches. Now that the draw is out they won’t last long, so book immediately!”
The top 16 will be joined by the 16 players who come through the qualifying rounds, which run from April 8 to 16 at Ponds Forge International Sports Centre. For ticket details call 0114 2233777 or visit www.worldsnooker.com/tickets
The Dafabet World Championship is supported by Sheffield City Council.
