The Adda52 35K Main Event running from 20th April to 22nd April at Deltin Royale Goa attracted an impressive 294 entries, generating INR 1,01,87,100 in prize pool. After three days of the gruelling action, it was Kolkata-based Mayank Agarwal who emerged the champion of the event after outlasting a 294-entry field. He defeated Haresh Kukreja in heads-up to claim his maiden 35K Main Event title at Deltin Poker Tournament (DPT). He won the main event for a whopping sum of INR 27,50,100 along with a beautiful DPT bracelet.
Mayank also finished 4th in IPC-4’s High Roller, which brought him into mainstream poker circuit. OPN Team spoke to Mayank Agarwal about his big win at the Adda52 35K Main Event of DPT April 2017. Here are the excerpts of the conversation:
Hello Mayank, first of all congratulations for winning Adda52 35K Main Event! For our readers who don’t know much about you, please tell us a little about yourself.
Mayank- I have been playing poker since 2013 and I have been consistently working hard on improving my game. I also stood 4th in IPC-4’s High Roller which brought me into mainstream poker circuit.
How did you get into the game of poker?
Mayank– It all started when we used to play 3 Patti sitting in a cafe where a random guy talked me into learning poker and well, there has been no looking back since then.
Which format do you like the most- online or live?
Mayank-I prefer live. Always, live!
Which sites do you prefer to play on? Please share your views about Adda52.com?
Mayank- I play online all Indian sites as well as PokerStars. I prefer to play tournaments and seldom play cash games. About Adda52.com, I love the interface and also like the high-value tournaments, which are conducted regularly.
Adda52 35K Main Event was the highlight event of DPT and you finally ended up claiming it. How does it feel after winning such a big tournament?
Mayank- To be honest, I am quite overwhelmed. The field was tough with the best of the country’s poker players. But, I emerged victorious, so yea.. I find it pretty cool!
How was your tournament journey and what do you think propelled you to the top?
Mayank– Only the discipline and patience kept me going. Waiting for correct spots while hovering around 12-20 BB throughout the tournament till I reached top 4 played a crucial role in claiming this title.
Please share your experience about the Adda52 35K Main Event Final Table journey?
Mayank– I entered 8/9 and I still had the same game plan to keep my discipline and patience. The players were indeed very strong but I found some correct spots which helped me to cruise and reach the heads up game.
You beat a tough opponent Haresh Kukrerja in the heads-up. How was your heads-up battle? Could you please share the final hand which won you this big tournament?
Mayank- The heads up was tough. I started 8:1 chip lead and very soon we became 4:1 when I lost a 60:40 hand. A little later, he became the chip lead. That is when I told myself that I have to be cool and keep on playing with the same discipline which has brought me so far and not to give up at any moment.
Poker is gaining popularity as a game of skill in India and many newcomers are joining in the game. Any advice for the young poker aspirants in the country?
Mayank- Patience, Discipline, Bankroll Management, and correct game selection are the most important things and something you should never sway from. And most important thing is to always be humble and respectful and never forget what brought you so far in life, ever!