By Richard Preen

World Ranking: 7
Date Of Birth: 12/10/74
Form:
World Championship best:

World number seven Stephen Lee is regarded by many as having the best cue action in the professional game.

It's therefore not entirely surprising that his effective style is making inroads into the tournament calendar.

He finished 2001/02 as the highest scoring player in terms of ranking points, achieved through successes in the LG Cup and Scottish Open.

These tournaments became the second and third additions to his trophy cabinet after winning his first event, the Grand Prix in 1998.

He has now been a member of the World's top eight for the last four seasons and although this season has had few bright moments he should hold on to make it a fifth consecutive season.

Lee has in fact failed to progress any further than the quarter-finals in all ranking events so far this season.

His World Championship form is surprisingly average considering his credentials.

The best performance came at last year's championship where he pushed Ronnie O'Sullivan all the way eventually losing 13-10 with Ronnie securing the last three frames.

His opponent at this year's championship is somebody with one of the best crucible records, six times winner Steve Davis.

This provides Lee with an opportunity to get revenge after `the nugget' ran out a 5-1 winner in the Irish Masters.

If Lee disregards earlier matches and performs to his true potential there is no reason why he cannot go on and provide a serious threat at this year's championships.