World number one Judd Trump and World Grand Prix finalist Jack Lisowski have both tested positive for Covid-19 and will miss the Masters.
The two played out a thrilling final in the last ranking event before Christmas and each would have had high hopes upon returning to Milton Keynes, particularly Trump who was a warm favourite for the event.
But on the eve of the tournament, he and Lisowski received positive test results and will be forced to isolate, with Joe Perry and Gary Wilson taking their places in the 16-man field.
A statement from WST read: "Judd Trump and Jack Lisowski have both tested positive for Covid-19 at the Betfred Masters in Milton Keynes and have been withdrawn from the event.
"Trump was due to play David Gilbert in his opening match. He has been directly replaced by Joe Perry, who will face Gilbert at 7pm on Sunday evening.
"Lisowski was due to play Kyren Wilson, and he has been directly replaced by Gary Wilson. The two Wilsons will clash on 1pm on Sunday in the opening match of the tournament.
"Perry and Gary Wilson were both already present at the event as reserves and have received negative test results.
"WST is following extensive Covid-19 guidelines in a ‘bubble’ environment for this event. All players are tested two days in advance of their first match, and after the test they remain in isolation until the result is received.
"All other players and officials tested at the event so far have had negative results.
"Trump and Lisowski will now undergo a further period of self isolation and will receive the support of WST and WPBSA.
"Since WST events restarted in June 2020, strict Covid-19 regulations have been and continue to be followed, under UK Government guidance."
