Pankaj is the star attraction in Cue Masters League

Bengaluru, July 27: Multiple world champion Pankaj Advani is the star attraction in the inaugural Indian Cue Masters League (ICML) to be held in Ahmedabad from August 19 to 25.

The launch of the innovative CML featuring five teams - Bengaluru Buddies, Chennai Strikers, Hyderabad Hustlers, Delhi Dons and Gujarat Kings - was held in Ahmedabad, the capital city of Gujarat, on Wednesday night (July 26).

The Bengaluru Buddies squad includes Darren Morgan (icon player), Varun Madan, Laxman Rawat, Sundeep Gulati, and Anastasia Nechaeva.

"India has many highly talented players but they haven't had the platform to showcase their skills till now," said Pankaj, who had just turned 32 on Monday.

Twenty five players were picked during the initial players' draft in the short-format tournament which will have 10 minutes for each frame.

"A format like this will excite the fans and I see it becoming a very popular sport very soon," added Pankaj, who will appear for the Chennai Strikers.

Billiards and Snooker Federation of India president Captain Mohan, who was also present at the launch, sounded upbeat about the new venture.

"It's a matter of huge pride for us that we're able to host a league of our own. This will not only raise the profile of the game, but also make it financially strong. I'm sure ICML will be a great experience for, both, the fans and the players," said Mohan.

His sentiments were echoed by India's ace women cueist Vidya Pillai.

"I'm optimistic of, at some point of time, having a separate league for women on these lines. It's so exciting!" said Vidya, who will also turn up for Chennai Strikers.
OneIndia News