After conquering the World, Asian and the Indian billiards crown, Pankaj Advani annexed the Australian Open title on Saturday.

Pankaj beat compatriot Dhruv Sitwala 6-1. On Tuesday, the 22-year-old was given a warm welcome by his home club, Karnataka State Billiards Association.

On the championship Pankaj said, "It was a good championship. The conditions were very player friendly. Winning on debut is definitely special. There were quite a few good players. They had an edge over the Indians because played the time format tournament, which could not participate in."

Talking about the semifinals he said, "The semifinals was a god match. Matthew Bolton was playing exceptionally well. I had to bring out the best in myself to beat him."

Speaking on the occasion, M.C. Uthappa, vice-president, KSBA said, "It is an amazing win for a Indian on debut at the Australian Open and he has made the country proud."