It's not the silly rule, it's the silly people playing. And using the silly rule in a manner which it wasn't intended, meaning the rule isn't designed to be a method to victory. When people stoop to using rules in this manner, it shows their lack of character, and their desperation.
Is the marker rule silly, to a degree, yes. I can understand what probably motivated its inception. We've already discussed the lengths people will go to win these games, don't you think its likely that these same sorts of people might claim that you didn't call out which pocket you were shooting at? "I didn't hear that". Now you have a whole other set if issues for players, captains, and LO's to have to adjudicate. Simply requiring a marker takes all that away.
Should we have to deal with such foolishness, no. But you can't mandate good character and common sense, and there isn't a practical screening method to eliminate those who go to extremes. And really, how much bother is it to simply place something near the pocket you intend to shoot at. Personally, I have gotten to like it, just a little, as it makes me slow down my approach to that shot. I'll trade that minor inconvenience for not having to insure that my opponent absolutely knows which pocket ( in what are usually busy and loud rooms) and to not worry about an argument.
I see your point about the rule,,,but I still think is a silly rule!!!
It causes the shooter to lose more games than it protects against the 8 going into a un- called pocket and someone claiming they called it. This rarely ever happens. But losing because pocket is unmarked happens often!!! Silly!!!!!!
I also agree people abuse it,,,and why it should be eliminated. example: Marker is put down,,,but is over the edge of the diamond by Millimeters. And someones cries foul!!! Or,,hmmm? Maybe the ref accidentally knocks your marker off while watching the shot,,and you lose!!!! LMAO!!!!
And only in the APA ,,can you slop every ball in,,,until you get to the 8.