The Jamie Jones show

Jamie Jones’ fairytale run at the Crucible came to an end last night but it’s time to celebrate not commiserate.

Picture by Monique Limbos

The Neath potter has been the star qualifier of this year’s World Championship and looks like he’s destined for a spell at the top of the game.

Jones has quickly established an excellent reputation this season with his performances in the qualifiers but this run to the quarter-finals at the Crucible is the best moment of his career and his breakthrough event.

Victories against Shaun Murphy and Andrew Higginson will live long in the memory but his run was eventually halted by Ali Carter.

Making your debut at the home of snooker can be a daunting prospect but charismatic Jones has taken it all in his stride.

Unlike many others on his maiden visit he already looks like he belongs here. Jones brought a brave and fearless style of play to the table and took the matches to his opponents. It looked like he was loving every second of it on the big stage and this run could well give him the confidence and motivation to make sure he does it again.

Comparisons have already been drawn between Jones and 2006 world champion Graeme Dott. Just like the Scot, Jamie plays every shot with great care even though he’s an attacking break builder. He’s quick to bring the pink and black balls into play and has a great touch making plenty of flicks and nudges while scoring.

Jones had nothing to lose this year in Sheffield and played it absolutely perfectly easily transferring his qualifying form onto the TV cameras.

We haven’t seen the last of this young Welshman. It looks like he’s next on a long line of talent to come out of the Valleys. He’s a sure top 16 player in the making.

Well played Jamie.