BANGALORE, Sept 8: Eight-time world champion Pankaj Advani could meet World Games gold medallist Aditya Mehta in the quarterfinals of the Indian Open 2013 World Professional Ranking Snooker tournament as both the cueists have been drawn in the same half for the 300,000 pound event in New Delhi.
As per the draw released by the Billiards and Snooker Federation of India (BSFI) president Capt PVK Mohan here today, Advani is drawn to play World No. 29 Marcus Campell in the first round while Aditya takes on 2002 World champion Peter Ebdon in his lung-opener for October 14 to 18 tournament.
Advani and Aditya, the only two Indians on the professional circuit, are among the top 64 players to qualify for the Indian Open, the first of its kind in India.
The five-day world ranking event will see top cueists from across the globe battling for a whopping winner’s prize purse of 50,000 pound.
“The best-of-seven format throws the tournament wide open. As for me, I will be playing Campbell for the first time and I am quite excited to be playing at home,” Advani told reporters after the announcement of draw.
On the chances of six Indian wild card entries selected after a two-tier qualifying competition, Advani opined that all of them might find it difficult due to the playing conditions, notably the tables with double-shaven nap and sensitive pockets.
“It took me nearly six months to get used to these tables that demand a light touch. The balls used are very light and sensitive, while the pockets call for precision. However, the best-of-seven frames format gives everyone a chance,” he said. (PTI)
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