Seven-time champion of the world Stephen Hendry will compete in a World Championship qualifier for the first time in over 20 years when he takes on Yu Delu this weekend.
The man known as 'the King of The Crucible' is just one win away from walking out to his usual rapturous reception at the home of snooker in the first round.
Since losing his top 16 status last year Hendry has had to compete in the qualifying event for each major ranking tournament but must come through just one game.
He has successfully qualified for the majority of televised events this season and has proved he can still compete with the big boys.
The Scot is favourite to come through this one but will be wary of the threat posed by his young Chinese opponent.
Delu, who has already won three qualifying matches to recah this stage, is bidding to appear at the Crucible for the first time and has enjoyed a fine maiden season on the professional tour.
The 24-year-old reached the last 16 of the German Masters, beating fellow countryman Ding Junhui in the performance of his career to date.
The duo are yet to meet in major competition but will contest a hugely important tie over two days this weekend.
The match will be played over two sessions (9/10), with the first starting at 2.30pm on Saturday and the second at 2.30pm GMT on Sunday.
It will be streamed live over the best of 19 frames from the the English Institute of Sport, Sheffield.
