How important is physical fitness in billiards?
I think it is of utmost importance that you should be physically fit. See when you are playing for four hours, you are actually walking for four hours. People tend to take billiards as a lazy game just because it is slow. Also for every shot you have to bend and for that you need a strong neck, good back and especially a solid lower back.

Who is your favourite player and why?
I have always idolised Geet Sethi for his concentration and handling of success that he has achieved over the years. I also admire Mike Russell. I feel he has been the best player in the world for the last 50 years. The kind of perfection he has displayed at different levels is matchless.

Why there are no new faces at the top level?
I strongly feel this game needs a decade of internship. It is not as easy as playing outdoor sports like cricket or tennis. In those sports you need at least two to three years of practice to become an average player but in billiards you need at least five to six years of practice to become an average player. Then once you reach the top level, you keep losing because you are up against top quality players for the first time.

Again it takes two to four years to learn from your seniors. So you need at least a decade to become a good quality player and that is precisely the reason why not many new faces are seen at the top. In today’s generation the youngsters are more inclined towards quick gratification and results. They are not ready to wait for years together. Billiards is exactly the opposite as it never gives quick and good results to you. It tests your patience. So unless you are ready to rub your nose on the grinding stone the results will not go your way.

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