CONSIDERED by many to be a genius at his peak, snooker player Alex Higgins' unorthodox play and exciting style earned him the nickname Hurricane and led to his immense popularity and fame.

In 1972 he became the youngest winner of the World Championship, repeating his victory in emotional style in 1982.

The high-life followed, with parties and prolonged drinking bouts. After suffering two bouts of throat cancer, Higgins reflects on his turbulent life and career.