COMPOSITION BALLS FOR BILLIARDS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXI, 7 August 1928, Page 5

COMPOSITION BALLS FOR BILLIARDS

(From Oar Own Correspondent.)

LONDON, 21st June. Important developments have just taken place in billiards. , From the point of view of the professional this has teen one of the worst seasons on record, and it was obvious that something must be done to stimulate interest in the spectacular side of the game. This lias been almost entirely in charge of the table makers and they have become tired of financing the game with little return. One thing which has contributed to this unfortunate state of affairs has been the quarrel between Smith and Newman. They have not met for nearly two years and thus what should have been the best matches have not taken place. At the same time Smith has persistently refused to compete in the championship unless the aulhorities would alter the conditions to his dictation. Now, however, Smith has been brought to see the folly of the attitude he has taken up and he has come to terms with Newman and an important series of games between them have been fixed up for next season. These will be followed by contests between Smith and the new champion, Joe Davis, who surprisingly defeated Newman two months ago, and there is no doubt that the three rivals will then be ready to take part in the championship. Another very significant move is that the matches between Newman and Smith are to be played with composition balls. It is a notable departure from custom. Indeed, it is the first time in the history of the game that the professionals have forsaken ivories. But the change has been made with a definite purpose. There is a strong desire on the part of the British players to induce rivals from overseas, and specially those in Australia, to visit this country, and it is that so long as they would have to play with ivory balls they are not likely to come. Again composition balls have been adopted for the amateur championship and this alteration has been a complete success. IF drove three or four of the old players out of the event, but for every one lost ten new men have been found.

Will composition balls bo used for the professional championship? »I understand that this is the intention of the players. There is no rule laying down the' tyne of ball which must be played with,* but the authorities will have to be consulted in regard to any change. It is not anticipated, however, that they will withhold their approval and—well, there -are high hopes that the Lindrums of Australia will come to this country next season and challenge for the title.