Recently crowned Australian Open Billiards champ Pankaj Advani speaks exclusively to NTabout the ongoing World Professional Billiards Championship, his passion for Bollywood, Katrina Kaif and Catherine Zeta-Jones

VINITA CHATURVEDI Times News Network

In the pool of talent that India has in the game of snooker and billiards, this 22-year-old stands out because of his grit, his undying passion for the game and his humility in victory. Pankaj Advani, the former World Junior Billiards and Snooker champion, is in a win win position at the ongoing World Professional Billiards Championship. He shares some bindaas details about his fears, fetish and passion in an exclusive chat with NT...

After winning the Australian Open recently, people's expectations from you would have increased manifold when it comes to the ongoing World Professional Billiards Championship. Does that make you uneasy?

Make ME uneasy? Shouldn't you be asking the others that? Ha-ha! On a serious note, more than uneasy I'm just excited to be brushing shoulders with the world's best.

With a new, shorter format of the game, on the lines of T20, being introduced in Billiards- will that prove to be a hindrance for the players, or will it actually help youngsters like you?

The WPBSA Championship is actually in the traditional time format (ODI equivalent) - a more accurate indicator of a cueist's skill and endurance. But, the 'point' format, the shortened version, makes the game quicker and more exciting.

How do you chill out in England these days when you are not playing?

There is a multiplex nearby, so I usually watch a couple of flicks. I may just try my hand at roulette soon if I get the time.

You are too young to be getting married at 22. But, tell us something about the special woman in your life?

The only special woman in my life right now is my game.

What's your idea of a dream date?

A candlelight dinner with Catherine Zeta-Jones, on top of the Eiffel Tower, with a view of the Champs Elysees.

Since you are quite good-looking, Bollywood offers may soon be coming your way. What kind of films would you like to do?

I've always been fascinated by Bollywood and would someday like to be a part of it. I like the idea of doing romantic comedies.

You are one of the most stylish players on the horizon. What's your fave style statement, and who is your style icon?

Since I wear formals while playing matches, I'm a total T-shirt and jeans kind of a guy when off the table. My brother Shree is my style icon. He is really funky, and I end up using most of his fashion accessories.

Who is your fave Bollywood actress? And who's your fave Hollywood star?

Katrina Kaif is my favourite Bollywood actress, and my fave Hollywood star is Will Smith - he's confidence personified.

What's the biggest fear that you have when it comes to your game?

Not performing to my full potential.

You are said to be an accomplished dancer. Which are the others passions that you have in life?

I'm getting professionally trained in dancing. I also enjoy reading motivational books and listening to music.

One prank that you wish you could play today?

For one of my matches during the ongoing championship, I would love to turn up at the venue with a Batman suit on (mask included). I'm sure the look on the faces of my opponent, referee and spectators would be priceless!