Alex Higgins is scheduled to make a return to competitive snooker today at the Irish Open in Derry.
The former world-champion is due to meet 16-year-old Darren Dorrian from Co Down in the first round of the tournament at 2 p.m. this afternoon.
Higgins has not played a tournament since 1997 and last year entered but subsequently withdrew from the Benson & Hedges Championship and World Championship qualifying events.
But Irish Open organisers have insisted the snooker legend, who has battled with throat cancer in recent years, will be in action in Derry.
"He's in good form and looking forward to the tournament," tournament organiser Colin Maguire told the BBC.
"On his day, he's still capable of beating anyone as he showed in an exhibition match against Ken Doherty late last year".
Dubliners Michael Judge and Fergal O'Brien are among the favourites for the tournament.