Benson and Hedges Masters Today is the first of eight days at the Wembley Conference Centre for the 16th Masters, which brings together the top 16 players in the world. This year, for the first time, two wild cards are added; they are twice-winner Alex Higgins and Thailand's
James Wattana. Prize money this year is £275,000. This morning's first match is between Higgins and No 16 seed Steve James. This afternoon's features the World No 8, Dennis Taylor , against Willie Thorne (No 9 seed). David Icke introduces highlights from both matches. Commentators: Ted Lowe
Jack Karnehm , Clive Everton , Ray Edmonds. Summarisers: John Spencer , Eddie Charlton.