India Dominates Asian Cue Sports: Sitwala Wins Billiards Gold, Ramachandran Bags Snooker Title
Dhruv Sitwala Clinches Third Asian Billiards Title at Riyadh Championship
The Asian Confederation of Billiard Sports (ACBS) recently hosted the Asian Billiards Championship in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from June 27th to July 5th, 2024. The tournament featured various cue sports disciplines, including the Men’s Snooker Team Championship, Men’s Billiards Championship, and Women’s Asian Snooker Championship.
Dhruv Sitwala Triumphs in Men’s Billiards
Dhruv Sitwala, the reigning national billiards champion from India, emerged victorious in the Men’s Billiards category. This win marked his third Asian Billiards title, adding to his previous victories in 2015 and 2016. Sitwala secured a thrilling 5-2 win in the final against his compatriot and billiards legend, Pankaj Advani.
The closely contested final match was played in a 100-up best-of-nine-frame format. Sitwala displayed exceptional skill and focus, overcoming Advani’s challenge.
Anupama Ramachandran Makes History in Women’s Snooker
Another Indian cueist, Anupama Ramachandran, etched her name in history by clinching her first international title in the Women’s Snooker category. Ramachandran dominated the final match against Thailand’s Panchaya Channoi, defeating her by a score of 3-1. This win propelled Anupama Ramachandran to new heights in her career, etching a permanent mark on her journey.
Thailand’s Domination in Men’s Snooker Team Championship
The Men’s Snooker Team Championship witnessed Thailand’s team comprising Dechawat Poomjaeng, Kritsanut Lertsattayathorn, and Yuttapop Pakpoj showcasing their prowess. They displayed exceptional teamwork and coordination, ultimately defeating the Pakistani team in the finals with a clean sweep of 3-0 frames.
Pankaj Advani: A Legend Honored Despite the Loss
While Pankaj Advani couldn’t secure the Men’s Billiards title this year, his achievements in the world of cue sports remain remarkable. Pankaj Advani’s place among billiards legends has been solidified with his recent enshrinement in the World Billiards Museum’s Hall of Fame, located in Shangrao City, China..
Advani boasts an unparalleled record, being the only player globally to win world titles across all billiards and snooker formats. He has a staggering 27 world titles to his name, along with 10 Asian titles (7 in billiards and 3 in snooker). His contribution to Indian cue sports is further highlighted by his gold medals in billiards at the 2006 Doha and 2010 Guangzhou Asian Game
FAQS:
Q: What sporting event recently took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia?
A: The Asian Billiards and Snooker Championship (June 27th – July 5th, 2024)
Q: Which Indian athlete won the Men’s Billiards title?
A: Dhruv Sitwala
Q: Who did Dhruv Sitwala defeat in the Men’s Billiards final?
A: Pankaj Advani (India)
Q: How many Asian Billiards titles does Dhruv Sitwala now have?
A: Three (2015, 2016, 2024)
Q: Which Indian athlete won the Women’s Snooker title?
A: Anupama Ramachandran
Q: Who did Anupama Ramachandran defeat in the Women’s Snooker final?
A: Panchaya Channoi (Thailand)
Q: What is the significance of Pankaj Advani’s recent achievements?
A: Despite losing the Billiards final, Advani was recently inducted into the Billiards Hall of Fame and holds numerous awards including the Khel Ratna and Padma Bhushan.
Q: Briefly explain Cue Sports.
A: Cue sports are games played with a cue stick on a cloth-covered table with pockets, including billiards, snooker, and pool. Each game has specific rules and variations.
Q: What is the format of the Men’s Billiards championship played in the Asian Championships?
A: 100-up best-of-nine-frame format.
Q: What is the significance of Dhruv Sitwala’s win over Pankaj Advani?
A: It showcases the rise of young Indian talent while acknowledging Advani’s legendary status. They maintain a friendly rivalry despite competitive spirit.
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