Where to Watch Mark Williams vs Barry Hawkins at the 2026 World Snooker Championship: BBC Four and TNT Sports Coverage with Hazel Irvine and Rob Walker

Match date: 24 April 2026

Where to Watch Mark Williams vs Barry Hawkins at the 2026 World Snooker Championship: BBC Four and TNT Sports Coverage with Hazel Irvine and Rob Walker

Snooker fans are in for a treat this evening as Mark Williams faces Barry Hawkins in the last-16 clash at the 2026 World Snooker Championship at the iconic Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. Kicking off at 19:00 UK time, this high-stakes last-16 session promises thrilling action, with comprehensive coverage available on BBC Four, the BBC Sport website, and BBC iPlayer for UK viewers, alongside TNT Sports 3 HD and HBO Max Europe for broader audiences[1][2][3].

The BBC, long-time custodians of the World Championship's TV rights in the UK, will lead the coverage with presenter Hazel Irvine at the helm, supported by MC Rob Walker. Irvine, a veteran broadcaster with over three decades in sports television, has become synonymous with snooker coverage since joining the BBC in 1997. Her engaging style and deep knowledge have narrated countless Crucible dramas, including multiple Triple Crown events. Rob Walker, the charismatic MC, brings his infectious energy to the baize, having hosted major tournaments worldwide since turning pro presenter in the early 2000s after a brief playing career[3].

Switching to TNT Sports 3 HD, UK subscribers can enjoy an alternative perspective presented by Radzi Chinyanganya, with punditry from snooker legends Reanne Evans and Alan McManus, reporter Rachel Casey, and again MC Rob Walker. Chinyanganya, known for his work on BBC and Eurosport across athletics and football, adds a fresh dynamic to snooker presentation. Reanne Evans, the most successful female snooker player ever with 12 World Women's Championship titles, provides invaluable insights as a pundit, bridging the men's and women's game. Alan McManus, a former top-10 player with wins at the Grand Prix and Scottish Open, offers sharp analysis from his 30-year pro career, renowned for his silky cue power and tactical nous. Rachel Casey rounds out the team with on-the-ground reporting, enhancing the immersive experience[2].

This matchup pits two snooker veterans against each other in what could be a tactical masterclass. Barry Hawkins, nicknamed 'The Hawk', hails from Dartford and turned professional in 1996. With his smooth cue action and composure under pressure, he reached the 2013 World Championship final and has claimed several ranking titles like the Players Championship, maintaining top-16 status through sheer consistency[1]. Mark Williams, the Welsh wizard and three-time world champion (2000, 2003, 2018), brings explosive potting and fearless flair to the table. At 50, his recent form proves age is no barrier, having overcome earlier rounds with characteristic grit[1][4]. Their head-to-head history adds spice, with Williams holding a slight edge in recent encounters[5].

The World Snooker Championship, snooker's crown jewel held annually from late April to early May at the Crucible, features a gruelling knockout format over 35 frames in the last 16. This year's edition, running from 18 April to 5 May, showcases the top 16 seeds plus qualifiers battling for glory amid the theatre's electric atmosphere[1][3]. For global fans, the world feed ensures accessibility, but UK audiences are spoiled by dual high-quality broadcasts.

Don't miss a frame: tune into BBC Four from 19:00 for Irvine's polished production or TNT Sports 3 HD for Chinyanganya's team insights. Live scores and updates are also available online via platforms like Flashscore[6]. As these Crucible stalwarts duel, expect safety battles, century breaks, and moments of brilliance that define the championship.

For more on the tournament's legacy, explore the BBC's World Snooker Championship coverage details[3]. Whether you're a die-hard follower or new to the green baize, this session is unmissable snooker theatre.

Article generated: 24 April 2026, 19:01 GMT