Rotherham-based Murphy is one of 20 players competing in this invitational event at Belfast’s Waterfront Hall, the first major professional tournament to be staged in Ulster.

“I’m trying my best not to get too carried away,” says snooker’s top potter, who beat Welshman Matthew Stevens in the final.

“I know it’s the biggest tournament in the game but I’ve still only won one title.

“I want to be considered up there with the likes of Stephen Hendry and Steve Davis. And at least I’ve given myself a chance.

“Since winning the world title my life has hardly been my own. It has been so hectic for myself and my girlfriend Clare.

“But we are determined to take control of things. Despite all the distractions I’ve been practising.

“Mind you, the first half an hour was very dodgy. You’d have thought I’d never played the game.

“But after that I really picked up and I can’t wait for the season to start.

“I know as world champion there will be people out there after my blood. But I think I showed at Sheffield I’m capable of handling the pressure.

“The players have been screaming for more opportunities to play in tournaments and the Waterfront Hall is a fabulous arena. I’m sure it’s going to be a great event.”

Murphy, 23 a few days before the event, became the first qualifier to win the sport’s biggest prize since Terry Griffiths in 1979 and the lowest-ranked player to take the title.

Aged 22, he was also the second-youngest winner of the event after Stephen Hendry.

The Northern Ireland Trophy takes place from August 17 to 21. The line-up has yet to be finalised but is expected to feature the game’s top 16 and four invitations, including Murphy.