Stephen Hendry was on the verge of a surprise win over holder John Higgins in the second round of the world championship on Friday needing one more frame to seal victory.

Scotland's John Higgins (left) looks dejected as he waits for the tabs to re-set alongside his opponent Stephen Hendry during the Betfred.com World Snooker Championships at the Crucible Theatre, Sheffield. [Photo/CFP]

Seven-times world champion Hendry won seven out of eight frames on Friday evening to take a 12-4 lead against four-time winner Higgins in their first Crucible meeting.

Higgins, who beat Judd Trump in the final last May, trailed 5-3 from the opening session before fellow Scotsman Hendry, who had to qualify for the tournament, took a commanding lead.

The winner is likely to meet compatriot Stephen Maguire, who leads England's Joe Perry 11-5, in the third round in Sheffield.