Seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry bids to reach the main stages of the Welsh Open when he takes on Kurt Maflin in the final qualifying round this afternoon.
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The Crucible King must see off young Norwegian star Kurt Maflin to set up a first round glamour tie with Masters champion Neil Robertson in Newport next week.
Maflin has vast experience on the professional tour, but is aiming to make just his second appearance in a mjor ranking event by winning through today's encounter.
He made a 147 in a PTC event last year and has taken notable scalps in the past including Jimmy White.
Although Hendry has slipped out of the world's top 16, he has continued to demonstrate his class with some fine performances and could prove too hot to handle for the 28-year-old if he brings his top form to the table.
The pair have never met in a competitive event but will do battle for a place in the lucrative ranking event today.
The bookmakers make Hendry the firm 2/5 favourite, with Maflin a 7/4 chance for victory with Bet365.
The match begins at 2.30pm and will be streamed live over the best of seven frames.
