Zhao Xintong vs Liam Highfield Preview & Prediction | 2026 World Snooker Championship | First Round

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Reigning world champion Zhao Xintong returns to the Crucible where he will take on qualifier Liam Highfield in the first round.

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

Tickets: Visit here for the latest ticket information

Zhao Xintong vs Liam Highfield prediction

12 months after he became the first Chinese player to become world champion, the hugely talented Zhao Xintong opens proceedings in Sheffield hoping to avoid the renowned 'Crucible Curse'.

If recent form is anything to go by though, the 29-year-old is undoubtedly the man to beat at the worlds as he comes into the tournament absolutely flying. The Cyclone has recently lifted the World Grand Prix, Players Championship and Tour Championship, the latter of which saw him thrash world number one Judd Trump 10-3 in the final.

The lowest-ranked player in the main draw, world number 92 Liam Highfield came through four rounds of qualifying to reach his fourth World Championship, and first since 2022. The 35-year-old Englishman was rarely troubled in qualifying with Stephen Maguire among his victims, but this is a significant step-up for him.

Xintong is bound to experience some nerves upon his return to Sheffield, and Highfield will feel he has nothing to lose as a massive underdog. The challenger will be sharp after qualifying and should at least nick a few frames against the Chinese star.

Zhao Xintong vs Liam Highfield tip: Over 14.5 frames