Mumbai, March 9 (IANS): Indian cue sport is set to take a big step forward with the launch of an Indian Premier League (IPL) -styled tournament that is likely to be launched here later this week.

In an informal chat with IANS here on Monday on the eve of the Indian Open World Professional Ranking Snooker Tournament, Billiards and Snooker Federation of India (BSFI) president P.V.K. Mohan said a formal announcement would be made on March 12.

"We will announce all the details, including player auction, format etc. on March 12," said Mohan, who is also the president of the International Billiards and Snooker Federation (IBSF).

According to sources, the player pool is likely to include foreign stars besides leading Indian cueists, such as national champion Pankaj Advani, who also holds 12 World titles.

The dates for the proposed league are still to be finalised given the crowded calendar. But quite likely, the event is will be in held in June this year.