Welsh Open: Pankaj Advani first Indian player to reach last eight

Pankaj Advani became the first Indian to reach the quarter-finals of a world ranking event with his 4-1 victory over Graeme Dott at the Welsh Open.

The eight-time world billiards champion wrapped up his win over Scotland's Dott with a 100 break in the fifth frame.

The 27-year-old from Pune, will now face world number two Judd Trump, who beat Andrew Higginson 4-1.

"I am surprising myself with this run but I'm just going with the flow and trying to keep winning," said Advani.

Advani has now beaten two former world champions in Newport, following his first round win over Shaun Murphy.

"It's exciting to be playing against the best in the world, at the top level and under the best conditions," added Advani.

Trump said: "It's nice to see someone from overseas do well and hopefully it will help us get some tournaments in India.

"I hope he bottles it under pressure tomorrow but I don't think he will."

Defending champion Ding Junhui, from China, is also through to the last eight after beating Mark Allen 4-2.

Stuart Bingham and Ken Doherty will meet in the quarter-finals after winning close matches 4-3 against Neil Robertson and Tom Ford, respectively.

Stephen Maguire won the final three frames to beat Matthew Stevens 4-2 and will play Alan McManus, who beat Joe Perry 4-3.