Dale was 8-1 down after the first session and took the unusual approach of speaking to the crowd before his fate was sealed against Wilson. The speech did him little favours, however, as he was quickly dispatched but has made a prompt return to the World Championship in a new role.

He is set to take up a punditry position with Eurosport, providing analysis at the tournament following his exit. Dale will make the journey from Sheffield to the broadcaster’s London studio to join the likes of Jimmy White and Alan McManus in the punditry booth, having worked for Eurosport previously before his qualification.

But Dale is still reeling from his disappointment at the Crucible, admitting that he was disappointed not to have done himself justice against the 2020 finalist, who came close to a 147 break on the final frame.

"It’s tough to take," Dale admitted. "I’m very surprised I struggled so much. The Crucible is unique, it’s different and confined. I played somebody who didn’t give me too many opportunities.

"Kyren started off like an Express Train. His game is in wonderful shape. He could be a contender – and I hope he is. It was a battle for me mentally. I was battling the occasion as much as anything else. You could see the difference between someone who is a top-16 seed against a qualifier.

"I was like a fish out of water. Kyren absolutely annihilated me. It’s not very often I get completely spifflicated. So, 10-1 is humiliating. But would rather suffer an annihilation like that than lose 10-9 on a black after being 9-7 up. That really hurts.

"I was never in this match. It’s just disappointing I didn’t perform like I have done all season. But at 52, I’m very privileged and lucky to be here. I’m amazed to experience it again."

Dale had credited his new French girlfriend Anne for helping him regain his form, motivating him to practice more often and providing the impetus for an unexpected return to the Crucible as the oldest qualifier since Steve Davis in 2010.

And those who enjoyed Dale’s appearance in the first round can find more insight and quips from the 52-year-old on punditry duties for the remainder of the tournament.