BEIJING, Feb 1: World champions Earl Strickland of the UnitMi States and Allison Fisher of Britain are th take part in China's first pool tournament. Scheduled to be held in Beijing from February 12 to 14. reports AFP.

Four other foreigners will take part, alongside three Chinese men and one Chinese ' woman, all of whom are amateurs. Two firms, one Chinese and one Taiwanese, are the sponsors.

China has hosted several billiard tournaments, but previously never ventured Into pool., which is becoming increasingly popular.