Pankaj Advani beat Sourav 5-2 in final to claim National Billiards C'ship title

Ace Indian cueist Pankaj Advani on Tuesday claimed yet ar Senior National Billiards Championship title with a 5-2 win over Sourav Kothari in a pulsating final. After losing first frame in best-of-9 150-up tie, Advani bounced back with breaks of 95 and 151 to go 2-1 up.  fourth frame was snatched by Sourav with aid of a 135 break to level match 2-all as players went into a mid-match interval. 

On return, Advani raised his game to next level, winning next three frames with breaks of 135, 94 and 109 to clinch National billiards title. This is Advani's 33rd National title in total and 10th in senior category.  Earlier in semifinal, Pankaj blanked Gujarat's Dhvaj Haria 5-0 with a supreme performance. match included four 150 breaks and an 81.

"I'm glad to win this title despite an improved standard in our country's level of 3-ball game," Advani said.

"I'd like to dedicate this title to Jyotsna Savur, wife of my coach Arvind Savur, who passed away recently. She was like a mor to me and I pray her soul rests in peace. This one is for you Aunty Jyotsna!"

23-time world champion will begin his National soker campaign back at same venue, once qualifying rounds are over.

Results

Pankaj Advani defeated Sourav Kothari 5-2 13-150(131*), 152(95,57)-12, 151(151)-00, 62(62)-150(142), 150(135)-45, 150(94)-48, 150(109)-02.