Ireland: Indian cue sports players delivered a stellar performance at the IBSF World Billiards Championship 2026, with Sourav Kothari clinching the gold medal and Pankaj Advani securing the silver medal in an all-India final. The championship showcased India’s continued dominance in international billiards.
Both players represent Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited, which celebrated their remarkable achievements on the global stage.
Sourav Kothari Defends World Title with Gold Medal Win
Sourav Kothari delivered a commanding performance throughout the tournament, successfully defending his world title. His consistency, focus, and technical precision helped him secure the gold medal, further strengthening his reputation as one of the leading figures in international billiards.
His victory adds another prestigious accolade to India’s growing success in cue sports.
All-India Final Sees Pankaj Advani Claim Silver
In a high-quality all-Indian final, veteran cue sports champion Pankaj Advani showcased exceptional skill and experience. Despite a strong performance, he finished with the silver medal.
Advani, a Padma Bhushan awardee, continues to be one of India’s most decorated athletes in cue sports, and his performance further highlighted the depth of talent in Indian billiards.
India Strengthens Global Dominance in Cue Sports
The final match reflected the rising global stature of Indian players in billiards and snooker. The presence of two Indian athletes in the championship final underscores:
- Strong training ecosystem in cue sports
- Consistent international performance
- Growing dominance in global billiards competitions
The event in Ireland further reinforced India’s position as a powerhouse in the sport.
About ONGC
Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited has long supported sporting talent in India through structured sports development initiatives. The company continues to play a key role in nurturing elite athletes who excel at international platforms, contributing significantly to India’s medal success across various sports disciplines.
