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.

“When you’ve had success at the Crucible you know what it means.

“You want to be part of it and not sitting on the couch talking about it. That’s all right when you’re not in the tournament. Getting through means so much. I’m over the moon,” he said.