WORCESTER'S Ian Hurdman is through to the second round of the Benson and Hedges Snooker Championship -- without potting a ball.

He was awarded a 5-0 walkover in yesterday's first round tie in Mansfield when his opponent Andrew Milliard failed to turn up.

Hurdman will now face Mark Davis, ranked 33 in the world, in the second round on Thursday.

Martley-based Ulsterman Terry Murphy has to wait until Saturday before starting his quest for glory, against the winner of tomorrow's clash between Tony Knowles and Albert Kenny.

The 11-day tournament is open to players outside the world's top 16, with the winner receiving a wild card entry into next year's Benson and Hedges Masters.