We’re getting into that stage of the night where a quick check of the Amazon Room landscape will give hints as to who is most likely to be back here on day two.

We’ve been able to see Team PokerStars Pro John Duthie from our vantage point on media row for much of the day, like a reassuring beacon in the crowd telling us that John’s still in.

John Duthie

Well, after four levels he’s still that way, assuming a favoured playing position of leaning forward with a massage therapist working the thought muscles. It’s a good time to relax, particularly with a stack in the region of 53K which should aid the therapeutic healing.

Also playing amid a happier spell (this is usally determined by how relaxed they appear at the table), is fellow Team PokerStars Pro Vicky Coren, who jokes her way through the penultimate level of the day. After initial setbacks earlier she’s restored harmony to her chances, back up to 36K and still wearing the cowboy hat.

They’re not alone as far as Team PokerStars Pro are concerned. Tom McEvoy had a ‘shout out’ across the Amazon Room earlier, being introduced as having won the World Championship 25 years ago and credited with being the first winner of the main event having qualified via satellite. He’s slipped a little since the dinner break but is still competitive, on 22K.

So too Vanessa Rousso, more so in fact. When I arrived to check in on her I’d only just begun to get to grips with a count before she helped me out, flashing 'fifty' – no doubt spotting the mathematical panic in my face. Vanessa looks destined for day two also (if she can escape any blogging jinx), and will smile all the way there.

It wasn't this cheery for two Team PokerStars Pros. New boy William Thorson was sent packing after seemingly invinsible earlier today, whilst Humberto Brenes is currently Missing in Action. We'll no doubt get confirmation one way or another as the night progresses.

Talking of Vanessa, the Team PokerStars Pro spoke to the PokerStars video blog team earlier today prior to taking her seat in the Amazon Room...

Watch WSOP: Vanessa Rousso Pre Main Event on PokerStars.tv