BENGALURU: India’s champion billiards player Pankaj Advani has shown keen interest in joining sports administration for which he will be contesting the upcoming Karnataka State Billiards Association (KSBA) elections with the aim of becoming its Joint Secretary, Press Trust of India reports.
“I have played this game for a very long time and want to give something back to it. Therefore, I want to do it in as an administrator. Yes, I am contesting Karnataka State Billiards Association election, which definitely is a big decision,” Advani confirmed his candidature on Thursday to PTI.
Advani feels that he could make a bigger difference to the fortunes of the sport with his experience and expertise as the KSBA hasn’t done enough to promote the sport.
“Though there are many in KSBA, who have done a lot, but the sport has not got the required priority. Obviously, it is very disappointing from that point of view,” he added.
Advani is confident that even if he is voted by the majority of the 2200 members in the KSCA, his focus towards representing India as an active, professional player on the international circuit will not deter.
“I am contesting the joint secretary’s post, which is directly connected with the billiards section. If I really wanted power, I would have contested for any other post than joint secretary’s. I will be there for the KSBA, giving them suggestions on promoting the sport,” Advani continued.
Asked if it would not be a conflict of interest issue to be an administrator and a player, he said there have been many instances where the players have been administrators also.
Dronacharya Award winner Arvind Savur and coach Jairaj would contest president’s and vice-president’s posts, the legendary cueist added.
“Arvind uncle and Jairaj and few others, who are contesting the elections are genuinely interested in improving the sport, which is something I align with this concern of theirs,” Advani signed off.
