Snooker Club | WST’s Official Podcast

The first regular episode of the new snooker season is here, with Mark Watson joined by seven-time World Champion Stephen Hendry and professional player Steven Hallworth to review the Shanghai Masters and look ahead to the rest of the China Swing.

Judd Trump claimed the 45th professional title of his career with an 11-6 victory over Kyren Wilson in Shanghai. Hendry, who commentated on the final session, examines the pivotal frames that helped Trump establish control and explains how the challenging, humid conditions affected both players. The team also discusses Trump’s evolution from an all-out attacking entertainer into one of the most complete tactical players in the game. Hendry believes the world number one may not take as many risks as he once did—but is undoubtedly a far better all-round player.

Attention then turns to the growing strength of Chinese snooker. Hendry explains why Ding Junhui remains the most revered player among supporters in China, despite the emergence of a new generation of potential champions. He also makes a huge prediction for Zhao Xintong, tipping him to win at least four titles this season and as many as four or five World Championships during his career.

The team assess Ronnie O’Sullivan’s latest return to competition after he produced three consecutive centuries before losing to Wilson. Hendry describes the recent story of O’Sullivan’s game as one of “flashes of brilliance coupled with inconsistent form”, while the panel considers whether the Rocket has another Crucible triumph left in him.

There is also praise for Xiao Guodong following his latest maximum break, sparking a debate about whether 147s are becoming less special. Hendry still regards a maximum as one of the most skilful achievements in any sport—but admits their increasing frequency means they are no longer the major talking point they once were.

With the China Open returning for the first time since 2019, the panel examines the draw, the challenges of an extended spell away from home and the importance of the ranking points available in Taiyuan. Hendry explains why being world number one mattered so much during his own career and predicts a close battle between Trump and Zhao for top spot.

Plus, the team tackle another edition of Maximum Break or Totally Fake, answer your questions and calculate approximately how many times Hendry has called a shot “careless” during his commentary career.

Snooker Club returns for an exciting new season as we look ahead to what the 2026/27 campaign has in store!

Joining Stephen Hendry, Mark Watson and Steven Hallworth for our Season 4 opener is Shaun Murphy, who opens up on the heartbreak of last season's Crucible defeat, explains why he's determined to become world number one, and looks ahead to the new campaign.

The team also previews the season ahead, discussing the players to watch, the biggest talking points, and what could shape another fascinating year on the World Snooker Tour.

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Seven-time World Champion Stephen Hendry and comedian Mark Watson recorded a special bonus episode where the Scot ranks his top 16 snooker players of the Crucible era. From all-time greats to modern superstars, Hendry shares his personal picks.

Expect plenty of debate as Stephen explains the reasoning behind his selections and reflects on the qualities that separate the very best from the rest.

Who makes the cut? Who narrowly misses out? And where does Hendry place the legends of the game?

1986 World Champion Joe Johnson joins Mark Watson backstage at the Crucible to reflect on his iconic victory 40 years ago, going to the tennis with Princess Diana and Cliff Richard (as you do!), and coaching Stan Moody!

1997 World Champion Ken Doherty sits down with Mark Watson to discuss an exceptional 2025/26 season for the World Snooker Tour