The IBSF Title Up For Grabs
This Monday is the start of the IBSF World Billiards Championships in Bengaluru, India. There will be high expectations for all onlookers as India’s young prodigy; Pankaj Advani will be competing on the baize table.
The billiards and snooker star already has two world titles under his belt so he has no reason to doubt his capabilities.
‘It is a mixed feeling, playing on home turf. There are a lot of expectations to live up to. I’m looking forward to an exciting event.’
Adjani believes that that the 6-ball, 5-nation snooker championships in Karachi recently, (where he contributed to the Indian team), was preparation for the commencement of the billiards championship.
‘Although it was snooker, the mindset was the same. It sharpens you up, especially for the points format.’ Said Advani.
The Indian star will be competing with other noted billiards professionals, such as Geet, Dhruv Sitwala, and Rupesh Shah. Advani knows well, the strategies of his fellow Indian players…
‘It is difficult playing against players from our country because we know each other’s game and understand how the other thinks. I just want to go out there and enjoy my game. There is no use thinking too far into the tournament and putting pressure on myself. I’ve been enjoying myself, and as usual will take one match at a time.’
The event will be held at the Karnataka State Billiards Association. The ONGC IBSF World Billiards Association will run from Sept 1-10 and follow the time and points format.
24 cueists from 10 countries will be competing for the title.