Ken Doherty to take on Barry Pinches in Irish Masters

Ken Doherty has learnt that he will take on Barry Pinches in the opening round of the Irish masters following today’s draw.

The world ranking tournament will feature the world's top 16 players along with 16 qualifiers and will take place in Citywest from March 6 to 13.

Top seed Ronnie O'Sullivan will take on Scotland's Stephen Maguire, while defending champion Peter Ebdon will meet fellow Englishman Dave Harold.

Of the other Irish, Brayman Michael Judge faces a tough opener against former winner John Higgins, while Ulster’s Gerard Greene will face David Gray.

IRISH MASTERS FIRST ROUND

Peter Ebdon -v- Dave Harold

Jimmy Whited -v- Mark Selby

Marco Fu -v- Robert Milkins

Paul Hunter -v- Tony Drago

Matthew Stevens -v- Anthony Hamilton

Chris Small -v- Ian McCulloch

Steve Davis -v- Mark Davis

Stephen Hendry -v- Robert Hull

Mark Williams -v- Paul Davies

Alan McManus -v- Nigel Bond

John Higgins -v- Michael Judge

Ken Doherty -v- Barry Pinches

David Gray -v- Gerard Greene

Graeme Dott -v- Barry Hawkins

Ronnie O'Sullivan -v- Stephen Maguire