Advani closer to world pro title

Reigning IBSF world billiards champion Pankaj Advani registered an impressive 1037-972 win over compatriot Dhruv Sitwala to inch closer to claim his first world professional billiards title, at the Northern Snooker Centre in Leeds on Sunday.

In Monday’s final, Indian ace will take on defending champion Mike Russell, who over came former IBSF world champion Rupesh Shah 1366-880 in the semifinal. Russell who is aiming for his 10th world professional title, beat India’s Geet Sethi in the last edition to win the crown.

Coming into the semifinal clash after a well fought match against England’s David Causier, Advani overcame Sitwala’s challenge in a nail-biting finish. Advani gave little opportunity for the Mumbai pro to better him. Concluding the first session with a convincing 518-472 lead with a highest break of 195, Advani came up with significant breaks potting a 182 and 149 unfinished in the second session.

Sitwala made gallant attempts to come back into the game with a strong double century break of 208 in the second session. However the Mumbai lad succumbed to pressure giving way to the 24-year-old Advani to enter his first final at the world professional billiards championship. 

On the other hand, Rusell who is current world No.1 in professional billiards outplayed Rupesh Shah in a hard fought clash to set up a title clash with Advani.

Results: Mike Russell beat Rupesh Shah 1366-880, Pankaj Advani beat Dhruv Sitwala 1037-972