Manila: Defending champion Team Asia is expected to face a strong challenge in the Reyes Cup scheduled at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium from Oct. 16 to 19. Team Asia will face Team Rest of the World, composed of the best players from Europe, the Americas, Oceania, and beyond, in the annual nine-ball pool tournament named after Filipino pool icon Efren "Bata" Reyes.

According to Philippines News Agency, Team Asia will once again feature the top three Asian players on the World Nineball Tour rankings, alongside two wildcards. 'Let them all team up - Asia is ready. They saw what happened last year, and we're only getting stronger. Playing in front of our fans gives us something special, and I believe in our players. Team Rest of the World better come prepared, because Team Asia is not giving up this title," Reyes, popularly known as the Magician, said in a press statement on Saturday.

Scottish professional player Jayson Shaw, a World Pool Association World Blackball champion, is among those hoping to earn a place on the Rest of the World roster. 'They had their moment last year - fair play to them. But trust me, this year will be different. Europe, America - whatever flag we wear, we're going there to win, silence the crowd, and take that trophy. We've got the players, and we've got a point to prove. I'll be doing everything I can to make the team, and if I get the call, I'll be ready to go there, put on a show, and win," stated the seven-time Mosconi Cup champion.

For the first time, elite players from across the globe will unite under one banner in a mission to dethrone Team Asia. 'If you thought last year was big - this takes things to the next level. Europe and the Americas joining forces is a bold move, and it shows just how much the Reyes Cup already means. We're proud to be working with Puyat Sports once again to deliver something truly global, and with the best players in the world on one stage, it's going to be unmissable," said Matchroom Multi Sports CEO Emily Frazer.