By Alex Hoad

Qualifiers Gerard Greene and Barry Hawkins have been handed tough tests in the form of former champions in the first round proper of the World Championship at the Crucible next month.

After coming through a gruelling qualifying tournament in Sheffield this week, Hawkins (pictured), ranked 17 in the world, will face defending champion and three-time winner, world number four John Higgins when the tournament opens on April 17.

Rainham ace Greene will look to progress past the first round at the world-famous venue for the first time in his career when he takes on 2005 champion and world number three Shaun Murphy.