O'Sullivan primed for Preston defence

Snooker's first ranking event of the season begins in Preston today with world number one Ronnie O'Sullivan seeking to retain his Grand Prix crown.

O'Sullivan faces world number 81 Bjorn Haneveer of Belgium this afternoon in the opening round, while world champion Shaun Murphy is up against Mark Selby.

Tony Drago will also be in action today at the Guild Hall when he squares up to Barry Hawkins. The Maltese professional player, who started the year ranked 43, is looking to regain his status among the elite players and a win this afternoon would certainly boost his chances of improving his position in the world list.

The winner of this match will face either Peter Ebdon or Jimmy Michie.

Paul Hunter continues his comeback from cancer against Rory McLeod tomorrow. World number two Stephen Hendry will need to see off Welshman Dominic Dale on Monday if he is to progress.

Other interesting first-round ties see veteran Jimmy White, who has dropped out of the top 16, pitted against Cleveland's Mike Dunn.

Last year's beaten finalist Ian McCulloch, who also reached the semi-finals of the World Championship last season, faces Finland's most famous snooker export, Robin Hull.

UK champion Stephen Maguire will be looking to build on last season's success as he comes up against Irishman Michael Judge.

Six-times world champion Steve Davis will be looking to delay his BBC commentary duties by overcoming world number 77 Gary Wilson of Newcastle, who has reached the finals of a ranking event for the first time.