Higgins knocked out in first round by qualifier

Former champion John Higgins suffered a first round knockout at the hands of qualifier Mark Selby on Sunday in the first upset at the world snooker championship.

World number seven Higgins had been tipped to do well in the tournament after claiming the Grand Prix and Masters titles this season. But he failed to produce his best form against the player he beat comfortably at the same stage 12 months ago.

Selby, who resumed with a 6-3 overnight lead, saw Higgins win the opening frame of the session with a break of 58. However, Selby regained his three-frame lead with a 123 break and also won the following three frames to complete an impressive 10-4 win.

"To beat John Higgins here is just a dream come true," a delighted Selby told reporters.

Selby admits he has drawn inspiration from Shaun Murphy's triumph as a qualifier in last year's tournament. He said: "It has given me a boost and I believe I can go all the way."

Higgins, who won the title in 1998, said: "I came here with very high hopes after such a good season, but I just couldn't get going at all. He was the better player and thoroughly deserved to win."

Veteran six-times champion Steve Davis advanced to the second round after beating Andy Hicks 10-4 in a scrappy encounter.

Davis, at 48 the oldest player in the tournament, now faces Murphy in the second round.

"He dismantled me last year so I'd love to turn him over," said Davis. "I've come to the tournament as relaxed as I've ever been and I'm looking forward to playing him."

World number 11 Stephen Lee held off a determined challenge from qualifier Allister Carter to secure his place in the second round.

Carter battled back from 6-2 down, winning six out of seven frames to edge ahead 8-7 before Lee rallied to win 10-8.

Other results: K. Doherty (Ireland) beat B. Hawkins (England) 10-1; S. Maguire (Scotland) beat M. King (England) 10-6; M. Williams (Wales) leads A. Hamilton (England) 8-1.