The 1998 Asian Games in Bangkok marked a historic moment for billiards as it was introduced as a competitive sport for the first time at the Asian level. India made an outstanding debut in the sport, securing two golds, a silver, and a bronze, making it one of the standout achievements for the country in the 1998 Asiad.
Ashok Shandilya (Gold in Billiards Singles):
Ashok Shandilya won a gold medal in billiards singles, defeating the world champion Geet Sethi in an epic final. Shandilya triumphed with a score of 5-4, in what was a thrilling contest, showcasing his skill and mental strength under pressure.
This victory was monumental, as defeating a world champion like Geet Sethi in a major international event was a remarkable feat, and it earned Shandilya the distinction of being one of India’s top billiards players.
Ashok Shandilya and Geet Sethi (Gold in Doubles Billiards):
In the doubles billiards event, Ashok Shandilya teamed up with Geet Sethi to win another gold medal for India. The duo defeated Devendra Joshi and Balachandra Bhaskar in the final, securing the top spot in the event. Their victory not only showed India’s dominance in the sport but also demonstrated the excellent partnership and skills of Shandilya and Sethi.
Devendra Joshi and Balachandra Bhaskar (Bronze in Doubles):
Devendra Joshi and Balachandra Bhaskar won a bronze medal in the doubles billiards event, further contributing to India’s impressive performance in the competition. Their medal added to India’s overall success in the inaugural inclusion of billiards at the Asian Games.
Introduction of Billiards in the Asian Games: The 1998 Bangkok Asiad was the first time billiards was included as a competitive sport, and India’s performance demonstrated the country’s strength in the sport from the very beginning. It set the stage for future success in Asian and international cue sports.
Geet Sethi: Although Geet Sethi lost in the singles final to Shandilya, his partnership with Shandilya in the doubles event was instrumental in securing the gold. Sethi was already a renowned figure in the world of billiards, and his continued success on the international stage was vital to India’s performance.
Ashok Shandilya’s Rise: Shandilya’s gold in singles was one of the most memorable moments of the 1998 Asiad. It marked the peak of his career and solidified his position as one of India’s best cue sports players.
India’s Dominance in Billiards: The 1998 Asiad marked a golden era for Indian billiards. India’s two golds, a silver, and a bronze showed the depth of talent in the country and set the tone for continued success in future competitions.
Inspiration for Future Generations: The achievements of Shandilya, Sethi, and other players like Joshi and Bhaskar served as inspiration for future generations of billiards and snooker players in India.
