English pool is a type of pocket billiards game that is played on a pool table that is slightly smaller than a standard size snooker table. The standard size of an English pool table is 7 ft x 4 ft.
The game is played with 16 balls, including 1 cue ball (white), 7 striped balls, 7 solid-colored balls and 1 black ball. The objective of the game is to pot all of the balls of a particular group (striped or solid) and then legally pot the black ball.
In English pool, the balls are racked in a triangular shape at the beginning of the game, with the 8-ball placed in the center of the triangle and the other balls placed randomly around it. The player who legally pots the 8-ball after potting their group of balls wins the game.
The game can be played in various formats, including 8-ball pool, 9-ball pool, and straight pool. 8-ball pool is the most popular format and is played in most tournaments and leagues. 9-ball pool is a fast-paced game where players must pot the balls in numerical order, with the 9-ball being the last ball to be potted. Straight pool is a more advanced game where players must pot any ball on the table, and the player with the most points at the end of the game wins.
English pool is a game that requires a great deal of skill, precision, and practice. It is known for its challenging gameplay and requires players to have a good understanding of the rules, strategy, and techniques. The sport is enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels and is a popular pastime in pubs, clubs and pool halls around the world.
The professional side of the game is governed by the World Pool-Billiard Association (WPA), which organizes international tournaments and maintains the official rules of the game.