JOHN HIGGINS has made his punditry debut at the Players Championship, despite being a player in the same tournament.
It was announced last week that for the event while still competing for the prize.
John Higgins has made his commentary debut at the Players ChampionshipCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
First day in the new job ✅ #PlayersChampionship | @Channel5Sport pic.twitter.com/35e53zWUIO
— WST (@WeAreWST) February 18, 2026
was set to be on of the 16 men in the competition, but he pulled out earlier this month, allowing Higgins the
And what a start he had to the tournament with the cue in hand, thrashing World No3 Neil Robertson 6-1 on Tuesday to advance to the quarter-finals.
Just the very next day he was in the commentary booth, giving his expertise on the likes of , Shaun Murphy and Mark Williams as they kicked their tournament campaigns off.
appeared excited and slightly nervous about the prospect of getting in front of the microphone when discussing the announcement last week.
The four-time world champion said: “Channel 5 have asked me if I’d be willing to do this as a trial period over these two tournaments.
“It’s something else to get my head around and my teeth into.
“It’s difficult sometimes coming to these events and you are on your own.
“You feel stuck between four walls. That’s why it has been good having (wife) Denise with me in a few tournaments this season and it has allowed me to relax.
Higgin opened his tournament with a win over Neil RobertsonCredit: Getty
“I’ve decided to take the plunge and be part of a team with the broadcasting. I’m quite looking forward to that.
“I might go down and try it and find it hard. I see the commentators down there and can see how long the days are.
“I might dip my toe in and think it isn’t for me. And vice versa they might think there are too many Scots in the studio with Alan McManus and . We’ll see how it goes.
“I’ve done commentary once or twice before. I know that will be a new challenge and difficult.
“The studio will be a little bit different. I’ll be more in my comfort zone there because I’ve been interviewed so many times after matches before.
“You’re just giving your opinion and your thoughts. It’s exciting and I’m looking forward to it.”
He joins pal and legend Hendry in the booth for the tournament, as well as fellow active player Matthew Stevens.
It is one change that is bringing to the game’s coverage after moving into snooker broadcasting for the first time with the event.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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