After that match, fellow semi-finalist Shaun Murphy commented that the best four players in the world at the moment had made the last four in China.

While Murphy had surprisingly elected to overlook Ronnie O’ Sullivan in making that statement, it is some testament to the season that Day has had and the esteem in which he is held by his fellow professionals.

Day’s first round opponent Michael Judge is a player who would be best described as a journeyman. He has been to the Crucible before and he lists Ken Doherty and Stephen Hendry among previous scalps.

There is no question that on his day his tough match play can make him a difficult customer to negotiate and so if Day has a bad first session then Judge could leave him with much to do.

On all recent form though, it is hard to oppose the Welshman and if he establishes a rhythm early and gets his potting and break building going then this is a match he should win with something to spare.

The prospect of a second round match against fellow Welshman Matthew Stevens is one that Day will eagerly relish, not least because Day recently defeated Stevens in the China Open. Prediction: Day 10-4 Judge

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