Well, it’s that time of year again! The World Championship has returned, with 32 of the globe’s best players set to fight it out for the crown across a gruelling two weeks of action. 

Much to the surprise of many, Ronnie O’Sullivan has committed to playing in this year’s edition, which would keep alive his imperious record of appearing at every World Championship since his debut. However, the Rocket put the tournament organisers on red alert when he hinted he could still pull out of the tournament prior to his opening match next week. 

In the meantime, though, as per tradition, it’s defending champion Kyren Wilson who will get things underway, with the Englishman taking on Lei Peifan. Elsewhere, there’s a stacked card for the opening day, as the Crucible gears up for yet another World Championship showdown.