Paul Hunter Classic: snooker tournament preview, predictions and free tips

Starts 10am Saturday

Michael Holt could be priced on the generous side for the two-day Paul Hunter Classic, which starts in Furth, Germany on Saturday morning.

Holt has said he expects to fare better on the baize this season and while there will be many more opportunities this season for him to get an all-too-rare title on board, this weekend's limited field offers a definite chance for him to do that.

Holt opens against David Gilbert but leads the Tamworth pig farmer 2-1 in their personal series. Joe Perry could also provide stiff resistance if the selection overcomes Gilbert, but the fact that Holt trails the Gentleman 5-3 on the head-to-heads suggests there is hope.

Barry Hawkins would be tough to beat in the semi-finals, but the Hawk is no certainty to open well against in-form Gary Wilson.

Kyren Wilson is the favourite to retain the title, but the Warrior may find Luca Brecel or Ricky Walden a handful in the last four.

Young guns Ben Mertens and Ryan Davies could go well but may not yet be up to going all the way against professional opponents.

Draw - top half: K Wilson v F Nussle, M Selt v D Dale, L Brecel v K Doherty, R Walden v qualifier; bottom half: D Gilbert v M Holt, J Perry v B Mertens, M King v R Davies, B Hawkins v G Wilson.

Recommendation
M Holt
1pt each-way 66-1 Coral, Ladbrokes

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