NOTTINGHAM potter Michael Holt admitted he was "relieved" to have avoided a repeat clash with defending champion John Higgins in the first round of next month's Betfred.com World Championship.

But the world No.24 knows he still faces a tough opening test against Cambridgshire cueman Joe Perry at the famous Crucible Theatre.

Holt and Perry are good friends and regular practice partners, so it was understandable both players had a wry smile as yesterday's live draw was revealed at Wembley Stadium.

"I'm glad to avoided John and Ronnie [O'Sullivan], but I'm gutted I'm playing Joe to be honest," said Holt, ahead of the tournament that gets underway on April 17.

"I'm sure it will be a really good match, but we're both really good mates. I went to his wedding and we always practice together so it's going to be strange.

"I always root for him to win, but I'll have to go out there and be professional and try and beat him.

"I suppose the good thing is that one of us gets through to the next round, but it would have been nice if we could have both got through."

Holt impressed with a 10-6 victory over promising Irish player David Morris in the final round of qualifying at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield on Tuesday afternoon.

And the 32-year-old is looking forward to returning to the city in little over a month to try and end his season on a high note.

"I've not had the best of seasons, but this is a great chance to finish strongly," he said. "There's competition to stay in the top 32."