Among them are world no.7 Liu Hai Tao from China, world no.8 Lee Vann Corteza and 2010 World 9-Ball Champion Francisco Bustamante from the Philippines as well as 2007 SEA Games gold medalist Chang Keng Kwang.

They will face strong rivals from host Vietnam, including defending champion and 2009 SEA Games gold medalist Nguyen Phuc Long, 2007 SEA Games gold medalist Luong Chi Dung and 2011-2012 national champion Do The Kien.

The players will be divided into 8 different groups to compete for a total cash prize of US$13,000.

The tournament is expected to become an annual event for domestic players to gain valuable experience in preparation for other international championships.