You know I pretty much agree with almost everything you say on here and I do see what you are saying about if they play fast and lose, they don't eat, I get it.
I think, however, that one of the things that would help one pocket become a more popular game and be more fan-friendly is to have the game go a bit faster. The games can be long, but the time in between shots probably needs to be managed somehow.
After all, more fans = more sponsors. More sponsors = more money for everybody, including the players!
And yes, they are the best 2 players and probably slowest 2, but I would be willing to bet if they had a 1 minute shot clock they would still be at the top of the pack!
As always just my opinion....
I agree totally with you, CK, on this viewpoint. So long as the rules are the same for everyone, and they know the rules going in, I don't see anyone being disadvantaged by a reasonable time clock. I would love to see a time clock on all streamed events and all tournaments where doing so is possible.
I think your description of a one minute clock, with 3 one minute extensions per game is perfect.
As for how to apply this rule, I would suggest that if a player goes past the one minute, he automatically goes into his first extension, and each time thereafter he goes past a one minute mark he goes automatically into his second and then third extensions.
Once he has used up his three extensions, going past the one minute clock time results in him having to immediately stop, spot a ball, then he has a further one minute to shoot.
I am aware that some have suggested that the penalty for exceeding the allotted time is loss of turn (and maybe even a ball as well). I think this is a severe penalty probably causing loss of game and is too impactful. I think penalizing slow play as described above will get the proper attention.
I also agree with the idea that instituting such a rule will help to promote one pocket viewing and playing.
Lastly, it is encouraging to see that most on here are knowledgeable enough and intelligent enough to differentiate between slow play and style of play. I don't think OP is meant to always be played in 15 minutes. If one runs 8 and out in 5 minutes once in a while that's fine. If a game takes on a more defensive nature and lasts longer than usual that's also fine. Requiring players to move along at an acceptable pace is fine. Setting a time limit for length of game is not fine.
I do think that where a time clock is used, no two hour or three hour limitation on matches will be necessary.