New Poker Boom On The Horizon?

There is a possibility that another poker craze could start if this November's World Series of Poker (WSOP) main event final table gets enough coverage, says one industry expert.

The world could be set for another poker boom if this year's WSOP main event final table is a success, according to InsidePoker magazine editor Alan Bowden.

Interest in the game soared after amateur player Chris Moneymaker won the big prize in 2003 - and Mr Bowden thinks the same pattern may emerge if the 2008 competition reaches out to a wide enough television audience.

Organisers of the WSOP announced earlier this year that the final table of its most prestigious tournament would be moved from its usual July slot to November in order to try and boost television ratings.

"This is a 'suck it and see' moment for the organisers of the WSOP," said the magazine editor.

"They have to do something to revive interest in the sport in the US and this has the potential to do that."

Final table players will meet in Las Vegas on November 9th and 10th to try and win the main event first prize, which has been confirmed at $9.1 million (£4.5 million).