Dubliner Ken Doherty faces a tricky first round tie against England's Dave Harold in next month's revamped Irish Masters.
The prestigious tournament has gained world ranking status and 32 players will now compete.
The Irish Masters traditionally incorporated an elite field of just 12.
The new look format means that Ireland's Michael Judge and Fergal O'Brien must pre-qualify for the event.
Judge will meet defending champion John Higgins in the opening round if he negotiates Rob Milkins in the qualifiers while O'Brien will go head-to-head with Joe Perry if he beats Nick Dyson.
Northern Ireland's Joe Swail opens his tournament against Stephen Maguire of Scotland.
The tournament will once again be staged at Dublin's Citywest Hotel and runs from March 23rd - 30th.