Farakh Ajaib

Ajaib earned a place on the pro tour for the first time by coming through Q School in 2020. He won five matches in event three, culminating in a 4-2 defeat of Brian Ochoiski.

The former butcher has now given up his job with his family’s business in Accrington in order to put total dedication into his rookie pro season.

“I always had a dream of becoming a professional snooker player,” said Ajaib, who represents Pakistan. “I am thrilled to have come through such a big hurdle. It is everything that I had ever wanted. I look forward to flourishing on the tour. It is a fantastic opportunity for me to showcase my ability on the world stage.

“I have been buzzing ever since I turned pro. It did not quite sink in that night, but when I woke up in the morning, I felt like a different man.

“My first target is to win the early matches and hopefully by the end of the year, get into the top 64. And that will keep me on the professional circuit. There’s more money in the game now than there was ten years ago.”