John Higgins is the new World Snooker Champion after defeating 2005 winner Shaun Murphy 18-9 at the Crucible theatre.

“I’m over the moon!” said a beaming Higgins to Ray Stubbs in the aftermath of what was an entertaining battle.

“I’ve won two out of the last three and there’s no reason why I can’t go on and win some more.” he continued.

The victory was no less than the Scot deserved having controlled the match from yesterday’s second session when an 11-5 lead put the groundwork down for today’s afternoon session where he increased his lead further to 16-8.

When play resumed, just after 8pm, it was Higgins who took the opener which signalled an end to Murphy’s hopes of causing an almighty comeback.

The world number three salvaged some pride by claiming the next frame, but Higgins was not to be denied and a brilliant break of 73 ensured he picked up the title for a third time.

Result

John Higgins (Sco) 18-9 Shaun Murphy (Eng)

83-0 (78) 85-6 (52) 79-20 7-83 (58) 50-96 0-114 (109) 49-63 69-34 (50) 98-1 (57) 12-87 (52) 70-51 95-11 (95) 70-45 132-0 (128) 82-0 (51) 128-6 (128) 64-42 0-91 (91) 60-49 76-43 28-70 49-79 (79) 94-26 (61) 80-59 (Higgins 52) 106-21 (58) 0-78 (59) 105-0 (73)

More to follow.