No one can doubt his ability: Savur

Savur felt Advani was not at his best in the tournament but made up for it with his concentration and confidence.

“There was no big change in his approach or the game,” Savur told Deccan Herald from Switzerland, where he is on a holiday.

“He did not look too good during this tournament. His largest break was 394, that’s far from his best (876 at the Chennai Nationals in 2006). But he made up for the lack of form with an amazing show of skill, concentration and immense self confidence.”
Advani defeated nine-time champion Mike Russell in teh final.

“He has defeated Geet Sethi a number of times but I told him that Russell will be his main challenge,” said Savur, known as ‘Tornado Fats’.

Advani, who used to tag along with his elder brother Shree to the Karnataka State Billiards Association Hall, was enrolled by the KSBA and was trained by S Jairaj first before he came under Savur’s wings.

“I helped him along but he is a truly talented cueist. Even now he comes home from time to time and practices. I give him some tips occasionally but the best part is that he learns so quickly. His ability to guage the game also makes him very special,” said Savur.

“No one can doubt his ability and his capacity to excel anymore. He is truly a great artist and I wish him all the very best in the future,” Savur said.

Asked about the impact the win will have on Indian cuesports, Savur underlined certain issues that have to be addressed.

“It’s a great moment as far as cueports are concerned but I really don’t know how much of a part it will play in reshaping the structure. Something needs to be done about the way the sport is run in the country. Prize money is a big problem, the players deserve so much more,” he said.