Wu Yize vs Lei Peifan Preview & Prediction | 2026 World Snooker Championship | First Round

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Two 22-year-old Chinese stars collide in the first round as Lei Peifan challenges tenth seed Wu Yize.

Kick-off date/time:

How to watch on TV: UK – BBC & TNT Sports / USA – Not televised

How to watch online: UK – BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport website & HBO Max / USA – Cannot be streamed

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Wu Yize vs Lei Peifan prediction

There is plenty of buzz around the enigmatic Wu Yize ahead of his third appearance at the World Snooker Championship, with the 22-year-old capable of undoubted brilliance when on song.

Claiming his first ranking title at the International Championship last November, the Chinese star was also runner-up in the Championship League and reached a further three semi-finals on tour.

Also 22, Lei Peifan may be a little less flashy than his compatriot but he is also a rising star in the game, and like his opponent, has a ranking title to his name (last season's Scottish Open).

Peifan, who reached the second round on his Crucible debut last year, looked impressive in qualifying as he cantered past Jordan Brown (10-4) and Ryan Day (10-5).

Tenth seed Wu is the favourite here, but Peifan will be sharp after impressing in qualifying, and he can at least make this interesting.

Wu Yize vs Lei Peifan tip: Over 15.5 frames