All systems go for Selby

Mark Selby gets his World Championship assault under way tomorrow believing he is ready to go one step further than the 2007 final, when he finished a brave runner-up.

The world No.7 faces 1997 world champion Ken Doherty in the first round, a re-match of the Grand Prix earlier in the season which the Irishman won.

Selby knows it is probably the toughest draw he could have got, but having won the Masters this season the Jester from Leicester is high on confidence and ready to live up to his billing as one of the pre-tournament favourites.

“I’m in great shape at the moment, and I’m probably the best equipped now to win this title than I’ve ever been,” said 26-year-old Selby.

“Technically and in general, my game is in better shape than when I got to the final in 2007.

“Everyone keeps telling me it’s my year, so let’s hope so. I will go there and let my snooker do the talking, play as well as I can, stay focused and hopefully go on and win it.

“I go to every tournament believing I am capable of winning. I don’t look at the odds and it makes no difference if I’m considered one of the favourites or not, as long as I believe in myself, that is the main thing.”

Mark Selby v Ken Doherty, best of 19 frames. First session starts at 7pm on Saturday, final session begins at 2.30pm on Sunday.