Pool icon Efren ‘Bata’ Reyes will serve an advisory role as the captain of Team Asia in the Reyes Cup, where they will go up against Team Europe

MANILA, Philippines – Filipino pool legend Efren “Bata” Reyes will get to represent the country and Asia in the sport anew — but in a different capacity this time.

Already retired at 70, Reyes will serve an advisory role as the captain of Team Asia in the eponymous Reyes Cup, set to be held at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium from October 15 to 18.

“I’ve been waiting for this for so long. Ever since the founding of the Mosconi Cup I’ve wanted something for Asia. Europe will have the edge because of their experience in that arena, but Asia has plenty of skill and talent to get the win,” Reyes said in the introductory press conference.

“I’m also looking forward to a potential exhibition against fellow captain Karl Boyes,” he added.

The event, co-organized by UK-based sporting events promotion Matchroom Sport and longtime local promoter Puyat Sports, mirrors the three-decade old Mosconi Cup, where the best of Europe and the United States face off.

Reyes handpicked Aloysius Yapp of Singapore, Johann Chua of the Philippines, and Ko Pin Yi of Taiwan to represent the host in the nine-ball battle.

On the other side, Boyes who led Team Europe to six Mosconi Cup championships, will be joined by Eklent Kaci, Mickey Krause, and Joshua Filler.

“This is going to just be phenomenal. The Mosconi Cup has been running for 30 years now and we sell out a 2,500-seat arena. Imagine where we will be with the Reyes Cup in just four weeks,” said Matchroom CEO Emily Frazer.

“I cannot wait to see all the seats filled up here at the Ninoy Aquino National Stadium in Manila. It’s about creating history, and what better way to do it under the iconic Efren ‘Bata’ Reyes.”

Set to be played in a best-of-21 affair, the team which will first reach 11 victories will rule the tournament, with each match a race to five.

Reyes, regarded as the greatest athlete of the sport, holds over 100 international titles, including the US Open Pool Championship, as well as the world 9-ball and 8-ball championships.

He has also racked up medals in various events in the Asian Games and Southeast Asian Games  – Rappler.com

Got comments, questions, or insights about this story? Head to the sports chat room of the Rappler Communities app, available for iOS, Android, or web. Access our chat rooms by tapping the Community tab on the app. See you there!