By IANS,
Bangalore : A clash in the dates between Annual World Billiards Championship and the International Snooker Championship left Pankaj Advani with a tough choice. Advani has opted for the World Billiards Championship in Leeds by paying a fine for pulling out of the China meet.
“A few months ago I took up the challenge of playing both Billiards and Snooker at the highest level and with a decision as unique as that, I was aware that there may be certain repercussions. And while an ideal situation would have allowed me to participate at both events, the clash of dates has forced me to pick ‘one’,” said Advani.
As the only active player to be competing at the highest level in both disciplines, Advani has been splitting his time between Sheffield, UK and India.
Asked how he maintains a balance in both the disciplines, Advani said: “It’s the challenge of playing both Billiards and Snooker at the highest competitive level that keeps me going. The contrasting nature of both sports is what keeps me engaged and stimulated.”
Pankaj hoped that he would add another world billiards title this year.
“Billiards has always been a test of the mind and endurance. I am very eager to play at the World Billiards Championship as I have always enjoyed playing at an event of such magnitude,” he said.
The World Billiards Championships will be held in Leeds Oct 18-28.