2008's runner-up, Ali Carter, won his first ranking title in February at the Welsh Open. After a successful season, he'll look to end it on a high, and will aim to book his place in the second round against qualifier Gerard Greene. On the other table, 2007 finalist Mark Selby starts out against Ricky Walden, who also became a first-time winner this season at the Shanghai Masters. Ray Stubbs, Steve Davis and John Parrott introduce the action from the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield.