TRUMP FIRST IN THE CUE FOR BIG RETURN

JUDD TRUMP will kick-start snooker’s return today in the opening match of the Championship League in Milton Keynes.

The tournament, the first since the Gibraltar Open in March due to the Covid-19 pandemic, will be staged behind closed doors at the Marshall Arena until June 11.

All players and staff will be tested before entering the venue, with players – who will adhere to social distancing guidelines – needing a negative test to take part.

Reigning world champion Trump (inset) faces David Grace, while Stuart Carrington tackles Jak Jones in the opening matches today.

Five-time world champion Ronnie O’sullivan’s first match will be against Welshman Kishan Hirani on Friday, while Mark Selby, who has three world titles, opens up against Lee Walker on Thursday.

“It will be myself, my opponent and the referee,” Selby told Sky Sports.

“I’m due to play Thursday. I’ll go down Wednesday and get tested.

“Then straight to the hotel and lock myself in my room and wait for the results to come back.

“Fingers crossed they come back negative and then I will be good to go.

“That’s the same for anyone who is in the tournament.

“This tournament next week, I’ve been playing in it for 11 years and I am used to playing with no crowd.”

The Marshall Arena has been chosen to stage the tournament because it has on-site accommodation for the players.

The total prize fund is more than £200,000, with the winner claiming £30,000 and a place in November’s Champion of Champions event.