Riyadh, Jul 3 (IANS): Ace Indian cueist Pankaj Advani, who is vying for a hat-trick of Asian Billiards titles, started his campaign at the 2024 Asian Billiards Championship on a high, beating Myanmar’s Aung Phyo 4-2 in his opening match.

In the second match, he emerged victorious in a thrilling win over Thailand’s Yuttapop Pakpoj 4-3.

Speaking after his win, Advani said, "It is always good to start a tournament on a positive note. These two victories have boosted my confidence and I have my eyes set on my target. Given that the sport is quite unpredictable, I am not taking anything for granted."

In the first match against Aung Phyo, the Indian took an early lead with a strong performance, winning Frame 1 with a score of 100(86)-35. Continuing his momentum in Frame 2, the Advani dominated the frame, finishing 104-34.

However, Phyo fought back, narrowly edging out Advani 83(66)-101(54) in Frame 3. Phyo leveled the match by winning another close frame 35-100(61). Advani remained composed under pressure and regained control, winning the next frame convincingly 100(53)-26, and he sealed the match with a commanding 100(100)-14 victory.

In his second match, Advani overcame Thailand’s Pakpoj in a thrilling win. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both the players putting their best performance for the fans.

In Frame 1, Pankaj started strong, winning 100(93)-00 with a phenomenal break. He continued his dominance, taking the next frame 101-03. However, Yuttapop fought back, winning the frame 61-100.

Advani responded with a near-perfect frame, securing it 102(99)-05. In Frame 5, Yuttapop showed resilience, and won a tightly contested battle 79(70)-101(60).

Riding high on confidence, Yuttapop leveled the match by taking the frame 80-100. In the decisive final frame, Advani displayed nerves of steel, clinching the match 100(72)-18.