Watch Shaun Murphy vs Xintong Zhao: Channel 5 Coverage with Stephen Hendry & Matthew Stevens at Players Championship 2026

Snooker fans can catch the thrilling quarter-final clash between Shaun Murphy and Xintong Zhao live on Channel 5 and My5 from 13:00 UK time at the Telford International Centre. This best-of-11-frames showdown is part of the 2026 Players Championship, a high-stakes ranking event boasting a £500,000 prize pot, including £150,000 for the winner.[1][2]

As the new host broadcaster for the tournament, Channel 5 brings comprehensive coverage, kicking off the action-packed quarter-finals on Friday. Viewers will enjoy expert insights from legendary pundits Stephen Hendry and Matthew Stevens, presented by Katie Shanahan, with reporter Abigail Davies on the ground and MC Tahir Hajat keeping proceedings smooth.[1]

Stephen Hendry, the most successful player in snooker history with seven World Championship titles, has transitioned seamlessly into punditry. The Scot, who won 36 ranking titles during his glittering career, offers unparalleled analysis drawn from decades at the top.[1] Joining him is Matthew Stevens, a three-time Masters champion and former world number three, known for his aggressive style and candid commentary that resonates with fans worldwide.

Katie Shanahan leads the presentation team with her engaging style, while Abigail Davies, a seasoned reporter, delivers on-the-spot updates. Tahir Hajat as MC ensures the event flows effortlessly from the baize.

The matchup pits two ranking event winners this season against each other. Shaun Murphy, the 2005 World Champion nicknamed 'The Magician', cruised to a 6-1 victory over Zhang Anda in the first round, showcasing his clinical potting and match control.[1][2][3] The Englishman holds a strong 6-2 head-to-head advantage over Zhao, despite the Chinese star's recent win over him at the Riyadh Season Snooker Championship.[1]

Xintong Zhao, the reigning World Champion and the first Asian player to claim the amateur world crown, fought back dramatically from 5-2 down to beat Elliot Slessor 6-5 in round one.[1][2][8] His World Grand Prix triumph this season underlines his threat level, making this a mouthwatering encounter of contrasting styles.[1]

The Telford International Centre hosts this elite showdown featuring the top 16 on the one-year rankings. Murphy's easier path contrasts with Zhao's gritty opener, but both arrive in form. Murphy reflected post-match on his dominant win: everything went right with great run of the ball.[3]

Other quarter-finals include Mark Allen vs Mark Selby at 19:00, following Thursday's results where John Higgins edged Chris Wakelin 6-3 and Judd Trump whitewashed Mark Williams 6-3.[1][2] Semi-finals loom on Saturday, with the final on Sunday in a best-of-19.

For more on the World Snooker Tour's flagship events, visit the official WST website. Don't miss this pivotal match on Channel 5 – a potential semi-final launchpad for either star in their quest for glory.

Article generated: 20 February 2026, 13:06 GMT