1. Gabe Kaplan

High Stakes Poker’s Gabe Kaplan found fame in the 1970s as the star of US sitcom Welcome Back Cotter, and has since mixed comedy with a semi-pro poker career. On HSP Kaplan adds real insight having sat at the baize alongside many of the great players in the past. Irreverent rather than boorish, and generally spot-on when breaking down the thinking behind the plays, Kaplan’s banter is a big factor in HSP’s success.

2. Mike Sexton

Sexton has fronted all five seasons of the World Poker Tour, gaining the unofficial title of ‘Ambassador of Poker’. His millions in tournament winnings – including 37 WSOP cashes and a bracelet – mean his well-mannered Ohio drawl carries genuine authority. Legend.

3. Jesse May

He may be a Yank, but as the host of Channel 4’s Late Night Poker, the ‘Voice of Poker’ has been an instrumental figurehead in the UK’s poker boom – not least because of his outlandish metaphors.

4. John Duthie

You have to feel sorry for Duthie: when the EPT host (and boss) can get a word in edgeways against Colin Murray’s constant stream-of drivel chatter, his observations are accurate and astute.

5. Norman Chad

He may be a loudmouth obsessed with discussing his ex-wives, but the WSOP host is always happy to bring the new breed of brats and show-boaters who have invaded the Main Event down to earth.