The Indian snooker contingent registered mixed fortunes at the 2025 World Cup of Snooker. The side designated as India A stormed into the quarter-finals with convincing victories in their group, while the team known as India B bowed out after failing to progress beyond the league stage.
India A’s Commanding Qualifying Campaign
Under the leadership of veteran champion Pankaj Advani, India A topped Group F with an unblemished record. Their journey included:
A 3-0 win over the United Arab Emirates team, where Brijesh Damani opened with a 64-1 victory, Advani followed with a 102-35 (including an 86 break) and then teamed with Aditya Mehta for a doubles triumph.
A dominant 3-0 result versus Afghanistan: Advani fired a 133 break in the first frame; he later partnered Damani to a 114-7 win in doubles, and closed with runs of 78 and 63 to complete the rout.
With these results, India A advanced confidently to the quarter-finals and await their opponent — the winner of the France versus Indonesia tie.
India B’s Disappointing Exit
Meanwhile, India B’s campaign ended in disappointment. Although they secured a 3-0 victory over Oman C in their final fixture, it proved only a consolation. Earlier losses in their group meant they could not advance.
Key Takeaways & What to Watch
Advani’s form remains brilliant: high breaks, composed match-play, and versatile performance across singles and doubles suggest he is still a force to be reckoned with.
India A’s dominance in the group phase sets them up well for knockout competition — their quarter-final match will be a major test of their title credentials.
For India B, the early exit offers clear lessons: selection decisions, match preparation and the pressure of tournament format will all likely be reviewed.
The upcoming quarter-final for India A represents a crucial opportunity: if they continue this momentum, an appearance in the semi-finals is well within reach.
Latest Update
As of the latest scheduling, India A are set to face either the France national snooker team or the Indonesia national snooker team in the quarter-finals of the World Cup of Snooker. The exact opponent will be confirmed following the conclusion of the France-Indonesia match.
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