Delighted Doherty makes World Champs

SNOOKER: Dubliner Ken Doherty secured the 19th Crucible appearance of his career as he qualified for the Dafabet World Championship with a 10-5 success over Thai Dechawat Poomjaeng.

The 44-year-old Dubliner — 1997 world champion — missed out 12 months ago, losing a last-frame decider in the final qualifying round.

And while Doherty has carved a niche as a broadcaster at the tournament, he wants to remain active at the top of the game as a player.