Action-packed day sets stage for national pool championship last 16 in Ludhiana
several matches turned into high-pressure contests where composure under fire proved decisive during the pool championship in Ludhiana
The Manisha Constructions National Pool Championship moved into decisive stages on Saturday after an action-packed day ended with the last 16 being fianlised.
The rounds of last 32 were a captivating mix of last-frame thrillers and commanding performances. With a place in the closing stages at stake, several matches turned into high-pressure contests where composure under fire proved decisive.
Shahbaz Adil Khan from Petroleum Sports Promotion Board (PSPB) emerged victorious in one of the most gripping encounters of the round, edging past E Pandurangaiah from Railways Sports Promotion Board (RSPB) with a scoreline of 8-7 in a match that went down to the final frame.
In another nail-biter, Sumit Talwar (Chandigarh) held his nerve to overcome his city mate Abhinav Dhiman 8-7 in a closely fought clash.
Kamal Chawla (RSPB), one of the most experienced campaigners, also had to dig deep before sealing an 8-6 win over Ranveer Duggal (Chandigarh), underlining the fiercely competitive nature of the knockout stage where even the slightest lapses proved costly.
Even as some matches tested nerves, others saw top contenders assert complete control with dominant displays. Gagandeep Makkar (Chandigarh) scripted an emphatic win, overpowering Dhruv Varma (Punjab) 8-1. Piyush Khushwaha (Madhya Pradesh) showcased fine form and consistency in his 8-3 victory over seasoned cueist Alok Kumar (PSPB).
Kushal C (Karnataka) and S Shrikrishna (PSPB) also advanced with convincing displays, logging 8-3 wins over Laxman Rawat (PSPB) and ML Laxman (Karnataka), respectively.
Delhi players Anuj Uppal and Shoaib Khan were equally impressive, cruising to comprehensive 8-2 victories against Namit Sharma and Anurag Gill, respectively.
Among the marquee names, multiple-time world champion Pankaj Advani (PSPB) continued his steady march, defeating Divya Sharma (Haryana) 8-4 with a composed and controlled performance.
Shivam Arora (Maharashtra) maintained his upward momentum with an 8-5 win over Jagadesh B (Tamil Nadu). Abhijeet Ranade (Maharashtra) extended his fine run, overcoming Malkeet Singh (RSPB) 8-4.
10-ball tourney kicks off
Adding to the excitement, men’s 10-ball National Championship also commenced on Saturday. The double elimination stage is underway, ensuring continuous action and providing players another opportunity to make their mark on the national stage.
As the 9-ball tournament advances towards its climax, the city continues to witness top-class action, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.
