The world's top 16 players will meet for the World Pool Masters tournament in Gibraltar this weekend ©matchroompool

Spain's David Alcaide will defend his World Pool Masters title in Gibraltar this weekend as the tournament returns to the venue where it was successfully staged last year.

Sixteen of the sport's biggest names will be part of its most prestigious invitational event as it celebrates its quarter-centenary.

Alcaide is drawn against England’s Karl Boyes in one of three first round matches scheduled for tomorrow evening at the Tercentenary Sports Hall, Victoria Stadium, in the shadow of the famous Rock of Gibraltar.

Spain's David Alcaide will defend his World Pool Masters tournament against a talent-packed field in Gibraltar this weekend in what will be the event's 25th anniversary running ©Getty Images
Spain's David Alcaide will defend his World Pool Masters tournament against a talent-packed field in Gibraltar this weekend in what will be the event's 25th anniversary running ©Getty Images

The other early matches involve Germany's Ralf Souquet, who won his sixth title in 2011, and Poland's Karol Skowerski, champion in 2012, with 2013 winner Niels Feijen of The Netherlands facing Raj Hundal.

Shane Van Boening of the United States, Masters champion in 2014 and 2015, is scheduled to play his first round match on Saturday (March 3) afternoon against England's Daryl "The Dazzler" Peach.

All matches are race to eight, winner breaks.

A 30-second shot clock will be in operation. 

Each player will have one 30-second extension per rack.

A prize of $20,000 (£14,570/€16,400) is on offer to the winner.