Regular readers may remember that this time last year there was a ghostly (ghastly?) guest writer during the 2015 World Championship.
Free Ball, as s/he mysteriously wishes to be known as, offered snippets of reflection on the various happenings at the Crucible that may have gone unnoticed to the untrained eye.
Commentary mishaps, studio stumbles, player attire, referees, fans and no doubt more all got a mention as we add a little bit of lighthearted respite to our coverage here at SHQ.
Free Ball did manage to meander its(?) way to Ponds Forge on Wednesday for the final day of qualifying action to provide a brief insight at what might materialise over the upcoming fortnight.
Read below for the first offering, but who is behind the Free Ball?
The absolute, must have, quintessential list of things you need to know about the final day of qualifiers from Ponds Forge, Sheffield.
By Free Ball
Arriving in the morning before his eventual defeat to Alan McManus, Jimmy Robertson did have success elsewhere. He was overheard saying he just had something nice from Greggs’ bakery. Not only that, he purchased some summer shorts.
Big Jan was spotted having a nice snooze amongst the crowd in the stands. He also wins this year’s “Smells Nice” Award. (Previously won by Robert Milkins)
Anthony McGill, also seen in the crowd after his victory, looks very pale. I couldn’t help but feel concerned.
Sam Baird likes to celebrate with a cold bottle of popular cider in a nearby refreshment shop. He also appeared relatively sedate with his success.
I’m sorry Ken, but a blue-backed waistcoat, with black trousers and brown shoes gets a no from Free Ball.
Desislava Bozhilova is consistently proving to be one of the best of the new crop of referees. But blimey, her voice doesn’t half carry.
Anthony Hamilton, after a tragic defeat on the final frame’s colours, was happy to chat with all and sundry outside. All and sundry being the smokers – Anthony had his trustee VIP, e-liquid thingimy stick.
Finally, Rob Walker appeared visually ecstatic, as he arrived with what appeared to be a large bottle of sparkling water.
