It's been over two years since he left the UK to set up a new life in the Gulf, but in that time he's managed to reach the 2006 Crucible final as well as win this season's UK Championship.

At his best, Ebdon is one of the most fluent potters in snooker, but when things are not going well the 37-year-old slows his game to such an extent that opponents and spectators are often left frustrated.

In all fairness, his tactics and sheer doggedness have worked for him and made him one of the toughest players on the circuit.