Where to Watch John Higgins vs Shaun Murphy World Snooker Championship Semi-Final: BBC Two, iPlayer and TNT Sports Coverage with Rishi Persad and David Hendon

Snooker enthusiasts across the UK and beyond are gearing up for an electrifying World Snooker Championship semi-final clash between John Higgins and Shaun Murphy at the iconic Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. Kicking off at 10:00 UK time on 1 May 2026, this session promises high-stakes drama as two former world champions vie for a spot in the final. UK viewers can catch every moment on BBC Two, the BBC Sport website, and BBC iPlayer, with TNT Sports 3 HD also broadcasting live for subscribers.

The BBC has long been the spiritual home of snooker in Britain, delivering unparalleled coverage of the World Championship since its inception. For this pivotal match, presenter Rishi Persad will guide audiences through the action, bringing his wealth of experience from over two decades in sports broadcasting. Persad, who has covered major events like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games, joined the BBC snooker team in recent years, earning praise for his engaging style and deep knowledge of the sport. Acting as Master of Ceremonies (MC) is the legendary Rob Walker, whose charismatic introductions have become a Crucible staple since 2003. Walker's career spans hosting duties across BBC, ITV, and Eurosport, making him a familiar and beloved figure to fans worldwide.

Meanwhile, TNT Sports 3 HD in the UK and HBO Max Europe offer alternative viewing options with a powerhouse commentary duo. Leading the call is David Hendon, the seasoned main commentator whose smooth delivery and insightful analysis have graced TNT Sports (formerly BT Sport) since its snooker inception. Hendon, a former player and journalist, transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, covering multiple World Championships and earning a reputation for his articulate frame-by-frame breakdowns. Joining him as co-commentator is Neal Foulds, a snooker icon with three UK Championship titles and a runner-up finish at the 1989 Worlds. Now in his 50s, Foulds has been a pundit staple for over 20 years, his technical expertise – especially on safety play and positional shots – adding immense value to any broadcast. Rob Walker reprises his MC role here too, ensuring continuity across platforms.

This semi-final pits two titans against each other. John Higgins, the four-time world champion from Wishaw, Scotland, boasts 31 ranking titles and a career marked by resilience. Despite recent form dips, his Crucible pedigree – including that epic 2009 semi-final win over Murphy (18-16) – makes him a perennial threat. Nicknamed the 'Wizard of Wishaw', Higgins has overcome personal and professional hurdles to remain a top contender, with fans eagerly anticipating his cue ball mastery in this best-of-33 encounter. Learn more about John Higgins' illustrious career.

Shaun Murphy, the 2005 world champion dubbed the 'Magician of the Baize', counters with silky potting and tactical nous. Hailing from Burton-on-Trent, Murphy has 12 ranking titles and reached this semi-final stage through qualifiers grit. His previous meetings with Higgins, including that heartbreaker in 2009, add personal spice, with Murphy's fluent long potting likely to test Higgins early.

The World Snooker Championship, running from 18 April to 4 May 2026 at the Crucible, remains the pinnacle of the sport, drawing global audiences. BBC's free-to-air coverage ensures accessibility for British families, while TNT Sports provides HD depth for dedicated followers. For comprehensive scheduling, visit the BBC's guide at their media centre. Expect frame-by-frame tension, with historical nods like their 2009 duel fuelling narratives.

As the green baize beckons, both channels promise immersive experiences: BBC's traditional warmth via Persad and Walker, TNT's expert edge from Hendon and Foulds. Whether streaming on iPlayer or tuning into TNT, this Higgins-Murphy showdown could redefine legacies. Don't miss session one – a battle for Crucible immortality.

Article generated: 1 May 2026, 10:01 GMT