1.
What was your favourite match in this years World Championship?I'll pick Higgins vs Liang Wenbo. There were better matches, and more exciting matches. But that was tense, close, Higgins nearly lost and I was there live watching it. And though it was in another match, I saw a 147 the same day, so was on a high.
2.
What were your 3 favourite moments in this tournament?The 147
Ali Carter's clapping. It may have been unsportsmanlike and you could debate whether Ali should have done it. But it created a talking point, will make any other Carter/Judd more interesting. (Also good to remind Judd that not everybody is just going to place their lips on his butt just because he's a young and up-coming.)
The Mark Allen potted white to lose the match. Mark
3.
What was the biggest surprise of the tournament? Any number of the first round matches. But pleasant surprise was Jamie Jones run to the quarters. Not that this is a diss to Jamie, he always had the tools. But one usually expects debutants to look nervous at The Crucible at some stage, even if it's just in finishing the match out. He looked assured, and like he was born to play at the venue. It was good to see.
4.
Which players disappointed you the most?Ding. I expected him to build on last year, and have another decent run. The Worlds is the one major he hasn't won, and I really want to see him do it. Losing from that far ahead to Day?
5.
Which players surprised you the most?See Answer 3.
6.
Will Ronnie win another World Title in his career?Hard to say. It would be folly to write Ronnie off. He certainly has the talent to win it again. But he won it this year because he was up for the fight, and wanted it. He may never be in the mood again. He may not be in the mood all season, and then it clicks into gear for Sheffield next year. Who knows? I'm sure even he doesn't.
7.
Who will be World Champion in 2013 (without thinking about it too much)?No on name jumps out at me. I sat there for seconds trying to grasp one. I'll go Higgins. Just based on the patterns for the last few years. Winner, Second Round, Winner, Secound Round, Winner, Second Round...