His commitment for the game is unwavering. Though he would have liked to give the senior Nationals a miss, but his love and devotion to the game, brought Pankaj Advani to Agra where he will be competing in the National billiards to defend his crown.
“After the World Professional Billiards Association’s world championship at Leeds, I didn’t want to come here, but it was my commitment to the game, that compelled me to join the meet,” said the 24-year-old.
His love is not limited to the title, though. He said he would do anything to popularise the game. “One day I hope millions will watch the game on TV and if I am part of it and playing a major world championship final nothing like it,” said Advani.
“I also want the sport to be a little more glamorous like other popular sports in the country,” said Advani adding if it meant changes it should be done.
Giving his own take on the changes, Advani said: “I think that world body should change the dress code. We still wear dresses that used to look great during the British rules. But I feel it should be more fashionable.” The idea of shorter version —a new combination of billiards, snooker and pool — being planned by the Billiards and Snooker Federation of India, would generate more interest.” Meanwhile, Geet Sethi and Advani won their respective ties on the opening day.