Zhao Xintong vs Shaun Murphy Preview & Prediction | 2026 World Snooker Championship | Quarter-Final

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Shaun Murphy faces his third Chinese opponent in succession when he challenges defending champion Zhao Xintong in the quarter-finals.

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 Shaun Murphy prediction

Reigning champion Zhao Xintong overcame countryman Ding Junhui 13-9 in the second round as he continued the defence of his world title.

In a high-quality encounter between the two Chinese stars, Xintong made three century breaks as he held off some stubborn resistance from 15-time ranking event winner Ding.

Shaun Murphy produced an exemplary display to defeat Xiao Guodong 13-3 in his own second-round encounter, with the Magician knocking in four centuries as he dominated his opponent from start to finish.

The 2005 champion has spoken confidently about his game in Sheffield, and with another solid season behind him, is certainly in the mix for the Crucible title.

Despite speaking of the pressures of being the defending champion, Xintong has nevertheless overcome the obstacles in front of him so far. However, Murphy is a man in form right now and is one of the players capable of toppling him. If he can continue where he left off against Guodong, the Magician could pull a rabbit out of the hat here, especially as Xintong hasn't been at his brilliant best in Sheffield.

Zhao Xintong vs Shaun Murphy tip: Shaun Murphy to win