Aug. 30: At 23, he's the blue-eyed boy of Indian cue sports, a youngster who has joined the league of Indian legends of the baize game like Wilson Jones and Geet Sethi. From Monday, all eyes will be on Pankaj Advani at the IBSF World Billiards Championship here.

Even with two world titles in his trophy cabinet, people will expect Advani to be a trifle nervous or edgy, but over the years the Bengaluru boy has mastered the art of taming his nerves and enjoying his game.

As he gears up for the event Advani says he's excited but definitely not nervous.

"It is a mixed feeling, playing on home turf. There are a lot of expectations to live up to. I'm looking forward to an exciting event," said the Khel Ratna awardee.

Advani, who was a part of the Indian contingent that won the 6-ball 5-nation snooker championship in Karachi last week says it still helped him prepare for the world event.

"Although it was snooker, the mindset was the same. It sharpens you up especially for the points format," said the 2007 world time format champion.

Apart from the likes of Peter Gilchrist and Praput Chaithanasakun, Advani feels competition will come from home. With the likes of Geet, Dhruv Sitwala and Rupesh Shah in the fray, Advani has his task cut out.

"It is difficult playing against players from our country because we know each other's game and understand how the other thinks," said Advani.

On his success mantra for the championship Advani said, "I just want to go out there and enjoy my game. There is no use thinking too far into the tournament and putting pressure on myself. I've been enjoying myself and as usual will take one match at a time."