World Snooker Championship Betting / Paul Krishnamurty / 24 April 2009 /

Higgins has previously struggled at the last-16 stage, says Paul Krishnamurty, and Jamie Cope is a high-quality opponent.

Many shrewd judges reckon John Higgins will make a bold bid to win his third world title, and there was nothing in his comprehensive destruction of Michael Holt to suggest otherwise. Having trailed early on, the 'Wizard of Wishaw' stepped up a gear and ended up running out an easy winner against a limited opponent.

However, his second opponent should present much of a tougher hurdle if the first round form is anything to go on. 'Shotgun' Jamie Cope also had to turn around an early deficit against the dangerous Joe Perry, but produced one of the best early performances of this year's championship to win 10-6.

The 23-year-old from Stoke showed once again what an outstanding talent he is - one of the best single ball potters in the game and a lethal break-builder on his day. In fact, though it may be a little early in his career, there could be some trading mileage in backing Cope at [50.0] to win the championship. If not this year, then he will certainly contend at some point during what should be a glittering career.

Higgins has had trouble at this last-16 stage in the past against younger opponents. Ryan Day ended his defence last year, while Shaun Murphy upset the odds against Higgins on route to the 2005 title.

Furthermore, Cope has no reason to fear Higgins, having thrashed him 9-3 in the 2007 UK Championships. My recommendation is to take the 2.1 about Cope receiving 2.5 frames on the handicap.

Selection: Back Jamie Cope (+2.5 frames) @ [2.1]

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