Champ takes aim

Bangalore boy Pankaj Advani talk to us about his packed training schedule for the upcoming Asian Games.
If Pankaj Advani isn't picking up his cell phone these days, it's because the lad's busy. In training for the Doha Asian Games, which start on December 1, Pankaj finds time only late in the evening to relax or even chat with family, friends or give interviews.What with his day pretty much packed from morning till evening, Pankaj says it's going to be a tough, but fun seven days in training for the big event in Doha.
"I just got back from Jordan the day before," says Pankaj, and already he's doing the 7 am to 6 pm training routine. "It's yoga at 7 am for an hour-and-a-half. We practise from 10.30 am and then take a break for lunch. It's back to the table from 3 pm to 6 pm." Naturally, he says he's physically drained by the end of the day. Although billiards isn't a sport that involves strenuous physical movement, the stretching forward and walking around the table can tire even the best. "That's why even chess players do weight training. For us, yoga is essential for development because the game's all about handling pressure; the expectations are so high."
The present contingent which is hard at work includes four women and 13 senior players, all belonging to different disciplines of cue sports. "That's what makes this different from other practice sessions. We meet once in four years and prepare for a tournament together. Otherwise, we're all busy working with our own associations." Has anything changed since four years ago? "No, my equation with them still remains the same. I'm still called Pank by everyone!" Besides Pankaj's excellent performance since 2002, what is also different is that this Asian Games, he's participating in the billiards tournament for the first time. Is he ready for the big win?
"Definitely, the chances are good. I don't want to fail in any department." Next week, Pankaj will return home and prepare to reach Doha on December 1. "Our event will begin from December 4. I am both excited and nervous; I know what it's like — wearing your blazer and representing your country." Sure there will be stress, but he has ways to beat it. "I watch a movie, listen to music — even when I'm out of station. I usually switch off my mobile when I'm playing, but sometimes I want to call a friend and talk for five minutes."
He's certain Doha won't be disappointing. "Although I'm not familiar with Doha, all those representing India will be put up in an apartment. So we won't be lonely there. Also, there are so many events to watch." Pankaj is hoping to catch two of his favourite sports — tennis and badminton. "I want to watch both Saina and Sania play." Any favourites? He says, "I'm rooting for my friend Joshna in squash. I hope she'll do well. I will be watching her matches and I'm sure she'll watch mine."