Programme insiders say the 35-year-old actor is likely to lock horns with current Time Lord Matt Smith, 29, when the series marks its half-century next year.

Ironically Cumberbatch, who has won plaudits for his portrayal of the modern- day Sherlock in the hit BBC1 series, has often been linked with the role of the Doctor himself but has played down the prospect in the past.

Writer Steven Moffat is currently at the helm of both the Doctor Who and Sherlock shows on the BBC.

“It’s fitting that the Doctor comes face to face with his ultimate enemy, The Master, for the 50th anniversary and it’s felt Benedict is the perfect choice if schedules can work,” we’re told. “Fans will love the idea of the man who plays Sherlock Holmes taking on the Doctor’’.