MANILA -- Philippine pool’s dynamic duo Efren “Bata” Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante will enjoy hometown advantage against their foreign competitors when the country hosts the 2009 PartyCasino.net World Cup of Pool this coming September.

A report posted on AZBilliards.com said that as host country, the Philippines will have two representative teams that include partners Reyes and Bustamante.

Reyes and Bustamante, both legends in the sport, won the World Cup’s inaugural event in 2006.

The reigning champions are Rodney Morris and Shane Van Boening, who make up Team USA.

The $250,000-tournament organized by Matchroom Sports is slated to take place at the SM City North in Quezon City.

The competition will run from September 1 to 6, featuring 32 two-player teams from 31 countries.

“Everyone, staff, players and crew, are delighted to be returning to the hotbed of world pool,” said Matchroom Sport chairman Barry Hearn.