Watch Neil Robertson vs Chris Wakelin Live on BBC Red Button: Seema Jaswal Presents with Joe Perry and Steve Davis

Match date: 27 April 2026

Watch Neil Robertson vs Chris Wakelin Live on BBC Red Button: Seema Jaswal Presents with Joe Perry and Steve Davis

Snooker fans across the UK can catch the thrilling last-16 clash between Neil Robertson and Chris Wakelin at the 2026 World Snooker Championship live on BBC Red Button, the BBC Sport website, and BBC iPlayer from 19:00 UK time. This high-stakes best-of-25 frames match at the iconic Crucible Theatre in Sheffield promises intense action, with Seema Jaswal as presenter, pundits Joe Perry and Steve Davis, and Rob Walker as MC.[2][3]

The BBC has long been the home of snooker in the UK, delivering comprehensive coverage of the World Championship, the sport's most prestigious event running from April 18 to May 4. Viewers can switch to the BBC Red Button for uninterrupted session coverage, while the BBC iPlayer and BBC Sport website offer streaming flexibility for those watching on the go. For full details on BBC's snooker broadcast rights, visit BBC Media Centre.[3]

Neil Robertson, the Australian snooker maestro and former World Champion in 2010, enters this last-16 encounter as a favourite. Known for his exceptional long potting and fluent all-round game, Robertson has been one of the modern era's standout players, amassing multiple ranking titles and consistently challenging for majors. His technical prowess and mental resilience make him a formidable opponent at the Crucible, where pressure is unrelenting.[2]

Facing him is Chris Wakelin, the English professional on the rise with a steady cue action and growing consistency on the tour. Wakelin has shown promise in recent seasons, including a strong 10-8 win in his opening round this championship, knocking out a seeded opponent. This session two showdown, following a competitive 9-6 frame scoreline hinted in early reports, tests Wakelin's mettle against Robertson's dominance in their best-of-25 battle.[1][2]

Guiding viewers through the drama is presenter Seema Jaswal, a versatile broadcaster with a wealth of experience in sports television. Jaswal has become a familiar face in snooker coverage, having hosted events for the BBC and Eurosport, blending sharp insights with engaging delivery. Her work spans cricket, football, and more, earning her praise for making complex matches accessible to global audiences.

Offering expert analysis are pundits Joe Perry and Steve Davis. Joe Perry, the 'Gentleman Joe', is a former world number four with over 500 century breaks and runner-up finishes at the UK Championship and Masters. Retiring from competitive play but thriving as a commentator, Perry's thoughtful breakdowns draw on decades of top-level experience, making him a fan favourite for his honesty and depth.[2]

Steve Davis needs little introduction—the six-time World Champion dominated the 1980s, earning the nickname 'Interesting' for his unflappable style. Post-retirement, Davis has excelled as a BBC pundit for over two decades, his encyclopedic knowledge and dry wit providing invaluable context. From Crucible triumphs to coaching stints, Davis's career offers unparalleled perspective on what it takes to conquer snooker's blue riband event.

Rob Walker, the charismatic MC, brings energy to the baize with his iconic introductions and crowd engagement. A snooker mainstay since the early 2000s, Walker's career includes hosting for ITV, Eurosport, and the World Snooker Tour, where his passion elevates every session.

This Neil Robertson vs Chris Wakelin match-up revives their rivalry, with Robertson previously dominating but Wakelin showing grit. At the Crucible, where the top 16 seeds meet 16 qualifiers in knockout long-frame epics, expect tactical masterclasses and potential comebacks. Session two at 19:00 UK time is pivotal, as momentum swings decide Crucible fates.[1][4]

Global viewers can access world feeds via local broadcasters, but UK audiences are spoilt with BBC's free-to-air excellence. Whether you're a die-hard follower or new to snooker, tune in for Seema Jaswal, Joe Perry, Steve Davis, and Rob Walker's coverage—it's unmissable World Championship theatre. (Word count: 712)

Article generated: 27 April 2026, 19:02 GMT