Snooker:Top-class snooker returns to Ireland in March after the launch of the Eddie Bennett Development Trophy.
Sixteen of the game's finest stars have been invited to participate in the €20,000 event at the Ormond Hotel in Kilkenny.
The cast includes Irish favourite Ken Doherty, 888.com world champion Graeme Dott, Royal London Watches Grand Prix holder Neil Robertson, seven times world title winner Stephen Hendry and controversial Ronnie O'Sullivan.
In addition to Doherty there is good home representation from former British Open winner Fergal O'Brien, former IBSF world champion Mark Allen and promising Main Tour starlet Davy Morris.
It is believed Paul Hunter's widow, Lindsey, will present the trophy to the winner.
The competition gets under way on March 9th with the final taking place on March 11th and it is hoped the tournament becomes an annual fixture on the calendar.
The competition will be vital to the likes of Jimmy White ahead of the 888.com World Championship qualifiers.
The Whirlwind said: "This is a great opportunity to play in a competitive match so close to the qualifiers.
"Such competitions gives a great boost to snooker as a whole and promises to be three days of fantastic competitive matches."
Doherty added: "Snooker has always had great support from the Irish public so it's great to see a competition of this calibre coming to Kilkenny. I look forward to a great tournament."
There has been no major event in the Republic since the demise
of the Irish Masters ranking event in March 2005.
Ironically, it gave O'Sullivan his last ranking event
success.