Manan, Devendra make knock-out stage in 8-ball pool nationals

Mumbai, Feb 17 (UNI) Holder Manan Chandra and Devendra Joshi, both from Petroleum Sports Promotion Board (PSPB), notched up two wins each from their respective Group A and Group G and ensured their place in the knock-out stage of the Khar Gymkhana National 8-Ball Pool Championship at Khar Gymkhana here today.

Manan first scored over Shyamlal Sharma of Bihar (5-3), then followed it with another fine win over Reza Merchant of Maharashtra (5-1).

Earlier, on the opening day, Devendra Joshi thrashed youngster Shyam Vora 5-1. Joshi opened with some fine pots and continued to play consistently well to ensure victory in his opening league tie.

He was particularly superb in the final ruck with a start to finish break. His rival appeared to be quite thrilled to grab a rack from him.

Following are the results: Group A: Manan Chandra bt Shyamlal Sharma 5-3; Manan Chandra bt Reza Merchant 5-1.

Group B: Mohd Asim bt Kunal Solanki 5-1; S Srinivas bt Shekhar Surve 5-1.

Group C: Deepak Sethi bt Mudit Loyalka 5-4.

Group D: Devinder Lilly bt S Sogani 5-3.

Group F: Divya Sharma bt Karan Menon 5-0.

Group G: Devendra Joshi bt Ravi 5-3; Devendra Joshi bt Shyam Vohra 5-1.

UNI