John Higgins made a winning start to the defence of his Indian Open title although the veteran admits confidence in his game remains low. Higgins beat Ashley Hugill 4-1 in the first round in Kochi as he sets about rebuilding his confidence after a difficult season.

The Scot is without a tournament win this term, having ended last season by losing a thrilling World Championship final to fellow veteran Mark Williams at the Crucible.

With Sheffield approaching once again, Higgins is keen to build his mental game.

“I haven’t been playing great lately, confidence is low,” he said. “Any win can get you back to feeling good about the game.

“Ashley doesn’t have much experience on the TV table, but it was the same when I played Joe O’Connor at the Welsh Open and he beat me.”

Higgins beat Anthony McGill in the final in Visakhapatnam last season and will hope for more progress this week at the Indian Open’s new home in Kochi, the venue earning praise from the defending champion.

Higgins however suggests his work ethic on the practice table this season has betrayed him, something he is attempting to address.

“It doesn’t matter what you have won in the game, it is all about the here and now,” he added.

“I have been down but I’m starting to feel better. If you win a match it gives you confidence. I haven’t been practising hard enough to deserve good results this season. If I was working hard and losing matches I’d be wondering why.

“Back home I’m changing my practice base so I’ll be playing more with Stephen Maguire and Anthony McGill and hopefully that will give me impetus.”

Higgins is 1.20 to win his second round clash with Duane Jones in India. Jones is 4.33 to topple the defending champion.