Our Snooker expert Richard Mann has taken a look at the Welsh Open and thinks a fresh Shaun Murphy could be the value call.
Recommended bets: Welsh Open
1pts e.w. Shaun Murphy at 20/1 (1/2 1,2)
0.5pts e.w. Michael Georgiou at 500/1 (1/2 1,2)
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The Welsh Open begins in Cardiff on Monday and World Grand Prix winner Ronnie O'Sullivan is favourite to continue his excellent season to date.
The Rocket was in imperious form in Preston last week and capped a fine tournament when trouncing Ding Junhui 10-3 in a one-sided final.
He kicks off his campaign against Robin Hull on Tuesday while current World Champion Mark Selby will face Christopher Keogan in the first round.
Judd Trump didn't make it past the first round in Preston so will be eager to enjoy a better week here.
He starts against Duane Jones, while a resurgent Ding will face Hammad Miah, and Stuart Bingham, last year's victor, will begin the defence of his title against Chen Zhe.
Ding is one who appeals on the betting front having returned from a spell in doldrums with a fine showing last week, beating the likes of Anthony McGill and Mark Selby on the way to the final, but he must bounce back quickly from that heavy final defeat.
He never got going against O'Sullivan and with a quick turnaround here, might just be vulnerable in the early stages of this tournament.
Shaun Murphy has enjoyed a fine season so far, proving one of the most consistent performers on the tour and reaching the business end of tournaments with impressive regularity so, at 22/1, he looks worth siding with instead.
Murphy still looked in good form despite losing to Stephen Maguire in Preston and as has been crucial in this tournament in the past, he has a freshness edge over a few of his main rivals and will arrive here desperate to bounce back.
A brilliant longer potter, a strong break builder and fine safety player, Murphy has all the tools and this former World Champion is always to be respected at major events.
O'Sullivan holds obviously strong claims again, but a longer week is in store for him here if he is to triumph again and he makes little appeal at the current prices, as does Mark Selby who still looks short of his best as he steps up his preparations for Sheffield.
Kyren Wilson and Trump have the potential to progress through their early rounds but the exciting Michael Georgiou might be another to have on side.
Odds of 500/1 look far too big about the Snooker Shoot Out hero who is full of confidence at present following a fine recent run of form.
Georgiou again looked to have his game in good working order when making the last 16 in Preston, only losing out 4-3 to Stephen Maguire, and he could easily produce another good run at massive odds.
Posted at 1345 GMT on 26/02/18.
