Rob Cross sometimes has to pinch himself just how quick his journey from armchair fan to world champion was.

The former electrician went from watching the World Championship on television to winning it in just 12 months, announcing himself on the world stage with a stunning fortnight.

And now Cross, nicknamed the Voltage due to his former profession, is plotting a defence to the title he won on New Year’s Day when the action gets under way at the Alexandra Palace on Thursday.

“I got a place at the Worlds last year and went on to win it which just goes to show you can’t take anything for granted,” he said.

“You have to go there and perform well and if you don’t anyone can bite you on the bum, they’re all there on merit.

“I have got a good record against him, Van Gerwen has lost against him twice this year. I won’t look any further than Jeffrey and take it one game at a time.

“If I play like I am playing at the minute then I will win anyway, I am enjoying it.

“It is the most relaxed I am feeling all year, I am enjoying myself and I can’t wait to get in there and go and play.”