Kandy Players Create History at 71st National Snooker Championship

In a historic achievement for the hill capital, PMTD Puwakgolla clinched the title of National Champion at the 71st National Snooker Championship, played for the prestigious Late U. W. Sumathipala Challenge Trophy. His teammate, Prathap Murugesh, emerged as the runner-up, marking the first time in the tournament’s long and proud history that both the champion and runner-up hailed from Kandy.

Both cueists represent the renowned Piramid Snooker Parlour, Kandy, and their outstanding performances have brought immense pride to the region and the Sri Lankan snooker fraternity.

The championship, organized in October, featured 283 players representing six districts (Colombo, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Kegalle, Galle, and Rathnapura). As in previous years, the event was sponsored by Sumathi Holdings, continuing its tradition of promoting and uplifting cue sports in Sri Lanka.

Puwakgolla displayed exceptional composure and skill throughout the tournament, demonstrating tactical brilliance and precision under pressure. Murugesh, too, impressed with his consistency and sportsmanship, making the final a thrilling encounter that showcased the rising standard of Sri Lankan snooker.

Both players have now been selected to represent Sri Lanka at the 2025 IBSF (International Billiards and Snooker Federation) World Snooker Championship, currently being held in Qatar from November 3 to 10. Reports indicate that the duo is performing admirably on the international stage, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride and determination.

This remarkable achievement not only underscores the growing dominance of Kandy in cue sports but also signals a new era for snooker in Sri Lanka. The dedication, discipline, and passion of these young players stand as an inspiration to many aspiring cueists across the country.

The Sri Lanka Billiards and Snooker Association, along with sponsors, well-wishers, and the entire sporting community, extend their heartiest congratulations to Dhanushka Puwakgolla and Prathap Murugesh. As they compete among the world’s best in Qatar, Sri Lanka proudly stands behind them and wishing them every success in raising the national flag high on the global stage.