Williams edges through at Barbican

The 1999 and 2002 winner was 4-0 up against Pakistan’s only professional before Akbar roared back to just 5-4 behind.

Welshman Williams’ experience told, though, and he got over the line - not that he was too worried about being the victim of a shock.

“I’m lucky in that I’ve always played the balls rather than the player,” he told World Snooker’s official website.

“My attitude has always been that the worst thing that can happen is you lose and you go home, which doesn’t bother me that much.”

Brazil’s Itaro Santos was sent packing 6-1 by Ricky Walden, while there were also wins for Gerard Greene, Ryan Day, Zhou Yuelong, Jimmy Robertson, Michael Holt and Mike Dunn.

Shaun Murphy defeated local amateur Ashley Hugill 6-1, showing no mercy to the 21-year-old as he racked up seven breaks in excess of 50.

A fine 102 was his best knock, with Hugill overwhelmed by the 2005 World Champion.

“I played well,” Murphy said.

“I didn’t give Ashley a chance to get going because with the new kids you never know what you’re going to get.”

Ali Carter was a popular winner, coming from 2-1 down to see off Alfie Burden 6-4, while two older faces had differing fortunes.

Peter Ebdon was a 6-0 winner over Lyu Chenwei but James Wattana was thumped 6-1 by Joe Perry.

Ross Muir caused an upset as he dumped out Mark King in a decider.

“I treat every ball the same, whether it’s practice or the UK Championship. It seems to be working so far,” said the Scot.

Jamie Cope beat Rory McLeod 6-5 and Yu Delu pipped Michael Wasley.