India is all set to become the second country in the world after England to have a 'National League' for cue sports.
The Billiards and Snooker Players Association of India, headed by seven time-World billiards champion Geet Sethi, will be introducing the league, which will provide a platform for young and aspiring cueists and help raise their standards.
"The game has taken a long leap in the country during the last few years and it is time that our youngsters are given tournament exposure in order to exhibit their skills in the international arena," Sethi told PTI in Chennai on Tuesday.
He said England was the only country in the world where a professional national league had been existent and in course of time, the Indian National League kicking off in Ahmedabad from Nov 24-28, will also attract international players.
"This event provides an opportunity to our players from various disciplines (billiards, snooker and 9-ball pool) to showcase their talents. The format is a short one so it is bound to be spectator friendly. The standard of our players, I am sure, will rise with more such tournament exposure," he said.
As for opening the doors for players from neighbouring countries to compete in the Indian National League, Sethi said "Yes, that will be stage two but for now we need to establish this as a workable and interesting format, besides setting up a national league ranking. Once these are met, international and Asian league events will be in place in phase two."
