STUART Bingham faces a tricky opener in his World Snooker Championship title defence as he takes on fellow Essex pro Ali Carter.
The Vange potter was drawn against Carter, from Chelmsford, yesterday morning with the first round clash beginning at 10am tomorrow morning.
Bingham, as he attempts to become the first ever man to try and successfully defend a world title, although he must first look to end a wretched record against Carter, who has won 13 of their 18 encounters to date.
Bingham beat Shaun Murphy 18-15 in last year’s showpiece but has struggled for form since lifting the trophy, with a final appearance at the World Grand Prix last month his best performance to date this season.
The winner of the match will take on either Stephen Maguire or Alan McManus in round two
The match will be played in two sessions, with the second beginning at 7pm with coverage of the competition will be broadcast on BBC Two from 10am.
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