Ronnie O’Sullivan begins World Snooker Championship defence against Pang Junxu

Seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan will take on Pang Junxu in the first round of the World Snooker Championship while Mark Selby begins against Matthew Selt

DEFENCE: Ronnie O’Sullivan will begin his defence against Pang Junxu. Pic: Zac Goodwin/PA

Seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan will take on Pang Junxu in the first round of the World Snooker Championship while Mark Selby will kick off his campaign with a meeting with Matthew Selt.

Defending champion O’Sullivan heads to the Crucible in search of a record eighth world title, hoping to move one clear of Stephen Hendry, who is tied with O’Sullivan on seven.