THE road to the 2026 WPA Heyball World Championship has been far from straightforward for Fiji’s top-ranked snooker player Nitesh Chand.
After stepping away from the game for several years because of health issues, the 43-year-old South Seas Club, Lautoka player has battled his way back to the top.
Now he is preparing to represent Fiji against the world’s best in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, at the Genting Highlands from 23rd till 26th of this month.
For Chand, the opportunity is the reward for more than two decades of dedication to a sport he has loved since first picking up a cue 26 years ago.
“I’ve practised so hard. I know I’ve practised so hard, and I have a good chance because I’ve been playing snooker for 26 years. This year I can see my form is coming back, so I must take advantage of this and produce good results,” Chand said
His return to elite competition carries even greater meaning after a difficult period that nearly ended his career.
“I had some health issues for two or three years and I left playing snooker,” he recalled.
“Then I made a strong comeback, winning a few tournaments and now I’m standing in the number one position in Fiji.”
Chand credits much of his resurgence to those who stood beside him during his toughest days, particularly his teammate Raymond Reddy.
“Raymond is the one who made me come back in this sport. Whatever I am today, it’s because of him.”
He also acknowledged his longtime coach, Suresh Chauhan, for shaping him into the player he is today, and also his sponsors Max Chandar and his doctor, Dr Neel for helping make his international campaign possible.
Despite entering a field stacked with professional players from around the world, Chand is embracing the challenge.
“There will be 64 men and 64 women competing. I know they are professionals while we are amateurs, but for sure I will give them a tough game.”
While his immediate focus is Malaysia, Chand is equally passionate about the future of snooker in Fiji.
Rejecting suggestions that snooker is a minor sport, he believes the game is growing rapidly, highlighted by local players now regularly producing century breaks.
He said international exposure would allow players to return home and share valuable knowledge with the next generation. South Seas Club is already planning coaching clinics for youngsters aged 14 and above, with the aim of nurturing future national representatives.
“Our plan is to develop the kids and let them play in Fiji before sending them overseas to compete and learn more.”
As Chand prepares to wear the Fiji colours once again, he hopes his journey from illness to the world stage will inspire others to chase their dreams, no matter the obstacles.
