The 8th NEPAZ Edition, held on the 28th of September 2024 at Smallstones, saw intense competition as the nation's top pool players battled for glory. With a field brimming with talent, NPPL players once again demonstrated their prowess, leaving a strong mark on the tournament.

 

The event featured a race-to-5 format, drawing participants from across the country, with both NPPL and non-NPPL players contending for the ultimate prize. NPPL players such as Pikinati, Solani, Bibido, Hardy, Ghost, Malanso, Delele, Bhuru, Eshca, O Sullivan, and Sakala all made impressive strides throughout the competition, representing their respective clubs in exceptional style.

 

From the onset, NPPL representatives showcased their skill. Pikinati, Bibido, and Solani all progressed through the initial rounds, with Bibido defeating Figo 5-2 and Pikinati securing a 5-1 victory over Divante. Hardy and Ghost also performed admirably, with Hardy overcoming Kille 5-4, while Ghost fell short against the same opponent.

 

Eshca, from Elusion 73, stood out with a clean 5-0 sweep over Blessed in the third round, followed by another convincing win against Putin. Bhuru from Leisure Centre similarly displayed his dominance, defeating Bright 5-1 to advance to the later stages.

 

The quarterfinals were packed with excitement, as NPPL player O Sullivan, from Pahukama Pool Club, eliminated Fire with a 5-1 victory, while Bhuru dispatched Pikinati 5-3 to advance. In a thrilling NPPL showdown, Eshca beat Kille 5-4, securing his place in the semifinals. Sakala from Elusion also reached the last four with a commanding 5-0 win over Maluva.

 

The semifinals saw Bhuru continuing his remarkable run by defeating O Sullivan 5-3, while Eshca overcame Sakala 5-2, setting the stage for a grand finale between two of the NPPL's finest.

 

Bhuru vs Eshca

In the highly anticipated final, Eshca proved to be unstoppable, defeating Bhuru 5-2 to claim the championship title. His consistent form throughout the tournament was on full display, cementing his reputation as one of the NPPL's top players.

 

In the 3rd and 4th place playoff, O Sullivan managed to secure a 5-3 victory over Sakala, rounding off the tournament with a solid performance.

 

 

The NEPAZ 8th Edition was a testament to the strength and talent within the NPPL. Players from clubs such as Elusion 73, Leisure Centre, and Pahukama not only competed but excelled, with Eshca and Bhuru leading the charge. Their performances, along with those of their fellow NPPL representatives, underscored the league's prominence in Zimbabwean pool.

 

As the NPPL continues to grow, its players are sure to remain at the forefront of competitive pool, consistently delivering top-tier performances in national tournaments like NEPAZ.

 

By Dennis Marume, NPPL Correspondent.