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First ever India Poker Tour announced

September 2008 will see the sport of poker take another big step into the Asian gaming market, as the inaugural India Poker Tour (IPT) will get underway.

The organizers are expecting pots worth $1 million and hope to attract some of the biggest stars from around the world.

Imran Hassan, spokesman for the IPT, said: "India traditionally has had a long history of being a card-loving nation.

"So we hope the launch of the IPT will now help to satisfy India's craving for skill based card games."

The idea for the tour was sparked following the 2007 Asian Poker Classic, in which a number of Indian players took part.

Mumbai will host the first event, before the IPT moves on to Bangalore, Delhi and Goa - where the grand final will be held.

Last year's Asian-Pacific Poker Tour organized the first major poker tournament in the Chinese city of Macau, the world's largest gambling destination.