Front Row Seat

One of the joys of being a member of the press is that you are treated to a front row seat, the absolute best seat in the house when it comes to watching the action unfold and the biggest names in poker lock horns. However, recent times have revealed that you don't necessarily have to be a member of staff to enjoy this exclusive perk.

For about half an hour, a random member of the public was leaning on an empty seat next to Phil Hellmuth in the very heart of the cardroom, casually watching the action as if he was Mr Harrah's himself or the legendary Doyle Brunson. The thing is, he was neither of these people, and after a considerable while, Andy Black glanced up confused and asked, "Are you a member of the press?"

Our mystery intruder paused momentarily before lifting his arms from the seat and answering, "Er... yes."

"Ha!" yelled Black hysterically. "Five to one that was a complete bluff!" The rest of the table giggled uncontrollably.

As Mr X, as he shall forever be known, took a hesitant step back, Black experienced a change of heart. "No, stay, I want you to stay, I'll be upset if you don't."

"Why not take a seat?" suggested a hospitable Kevin O'Leary.

""I vote he stays," requested Black raising a paw. "I'll pay you to stay."

As players dispersed for the break, Black raced over to his new found friend. "I just thought it was a cash game or something," Mr X pleaded naively. "Do you know who you were leaning next to?" asked PokerNews' photographer Neil Stoddart. Mr X shrugged. "That's Phil Hellmuth, 11 bracelets." Mr X seemed none the wiser.

Only time will tell if Mr X will return after the break. I'm sure he will be welcomed back with open arms, although possibly not by Hellmuth.