New Delhi, 30 April (H.S.): The Sports Authority of India (SAI) extended financial support to the Indian team for participation in the IBSF World Men's Billiards Championship 2026 held in Ireland. This assistance covered 2026 world champion Sourav Kothari, multiple-time world champion Pankaj Advani, and coach Ashok Shandilya.

The championship concluded on April 29, with the Indian contingent participating under the government's 'National Sports Federation Assistance Scheme'.

SAI approved approximately ₹6.46 lakh to the Billiards and Snooker Federation of India (BSFI) for the team's participation. This funding covers players' and coach's travel expenses, accommodation, meals, and other competition-related costs.

The initiative aims to provide better international support to Indian players and encourage participation in major tournaments.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar