Neena on a roll

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Neena Praveen has been on a roll.

The 29-year Chennai cueist successfully defended her 8-ball title at the national championship in Ludhiana a couple of weeks ago. Neena, who started playing the sport relatively late as an 18-year-old, has been consistent with her snooker and billiards performances at the national level.

But it was not until 2009 that she decided to give pool a try. Neena, in the very next year, went on to clinch the 8-ball national title and also emerged as the runners-up in the 9-ball category during the same tournament.

“I started playing pool as I found it more challenging. In pool, one has to play a fast game and clear the table as quickly as possible. Once I started practising, my confidence went up and I knew that I could play this format as well,” said the present state No. 2 billiards player.

“I did not carry any sort of pressure. I was not considered a favourite, which in turn helped me concentrate more. On the road to final, I was extremely satisfied beating seasoned players like Chitra and Meenal Thakur. In the 8-ball summit clash, I defeated present national snooker champion Vidya Pillai. For me, the triumph was a great achievement as I got the due credit and recognition at the national level,” added Neena.

Recollecting her recent victory in Punjab, Neena said: “Going into the tournament as the defending champion this year, I was handed a shock defeat by Keerat in the first round. The loss meant that I had to win the next three matches. I put up a good show and succeeded in my next three outings. The treble further boosted my self-belief and I put it across Suniti Damani to lift the title. Finishing third in the 9-ball event this year was also satisfying.”

After her national achievements, Neena represented India at the Asian Games held in China. In addition, Neena has also turned out in the Indian colours at the IBSF World Championship in 2009. Neena noted that it wouldn’t have been possible without the help of her mentors.

“First, I trained under Mr Rajmohan. It was a great learning experience. Besides that, I have profited by the useful tips given by Mr R.B. Ganesh who is an international referee. Also, lessons given by George Dacer of Philippines and UK’s Derek Hill have held me in good stead. S.A. Saleem, too, has guided me well,” stated Neena, who added that her husband Praveen has been her pillar of strength.

Neena exuded confidence about her future commitments and said: “I would be taking part at the Beijing Open during the end of April and I might also be playing the US Open. The state snooker and billiards championships are also coming up. There is also a 9-ball pool Indian team selection camp for World Championship.”

The Chennai cueist signed off saying that it was difficult to maintain a career in the world of professional sports without sponsors.

“It becomes hard to compete in the international arena without proper financial backing. I am in search of sponsors as it would help me further my career to a great extent,” concluded Neena.