Billiards and Snooker, the two traditional cue sports, so to speak, have been very popular in Tamil Nadu, especially in Chennai. Post Independence, the state has been producing national and international talents, a few with spectacular skill levels in snooker and billiards. And when other formats of cue sports like 8 Ball Pool, and 9 Ball Pool also gained popularity in the country, Tamil Nadu too produced talented players, including women. One such woman snooker talent who shot to prominence was Chennai based Neena Praveen. As she evolved into a very competitive player, her achievements included Rank 3 in the 2008 National Women Snooker championship, winner of the 2010 National Women 8 Ball Pool championship and Runner Up in 2010 National Women 9 Ball Pool Championship. Neena also finished as a semi finalist in the 6 Red Snooker National Championship for Women organised by the Billiards and Snooker Federation of India (BSFI). In 2003 Neena represented India in snooker at the Asian Indoor Games meet. Six times she has been ranked as Tamil Nadu No. 2 in Ladies Snooker.
Neena (sixth from left) at the inauguration of her Academy (Green Table).
SDATN Member Secretary Meghanatha Reddy inaugurating Snooker player Neena Praveen’s Academy in Chennai.
On May 27, 2025, Neena became India’s first woman player to launch a Snooker and related Cue Sports Academy at Velachery in Chennai with the aim of grooming talent for the future. The Chennai 147 Sports Academy, as it is called, was inaugurated by J. Meghanatha Reddy, Member Secretary, Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDATN).
On this occasion, in an interview, Neena shares her thoughts about the development of cue sports in Chennai and Tamil Nadu. Excerpts:
What made you launch a snooker academy?
We built Chennai 147 out of pure love for the game. We wanted a space where players of all ages and levels could walk in, feel inspired, and train seriously. It’s not just about tables, it’s about community, opportunity, and creating something the sport truly deserves.
What is the scenario of women taking to cue sports in Chennai/Tamil Nadu?
It is amazing to see more women stepping into cue sports now. But there is a certain hesitation due to lack of exposure and accessible spaces. We are here to change that by being welcoming, safe, and supportive. Though not a ladies-only place, it is a place where they will always be encouraged.
Do players today play multiple formats or do they stick to traditional snooker/billiards?
The game has evolved a lot. Players today enjoy mixing formats such as snooker, pool, and now, heyball. We are proud to support that shift by offering exposure to different styles. It keeps the learning fresh and offers players more to explore, whether they are beginners or aiming for pro-level training.
What is the strength of your academy?
Quality is our strength. Every detail has been carefully thought through – original imported tables, professional cues, and most importantly, space to move, focus, and play comfortably. There is no clutter or compromise here. Chennai 147 has been built to feel like a true training ground, not just another hangout spot.
Any special feature in your academy?
We are proud that we have the first original Xinjue Heyball table in Tamil Nadu, which is quite rare in India. It is something special for serious players who want to experience international standards. This game has a bright future in cue sports and is going to be in the Olympic Games. We have created an atmosphere and a place with international standard tables to which players will want to keep coming back to get used to the facilities and the experience.
What is the scene outside Chennai when it comes to talent and development?
There is real talent all over, especially in smaller towns, but not everyone has the chance to train with proper facilities. Outside Chennai, the scene is growing, but slowly. We need more spaces like this across the country to tap into that potential and give players the stage they deserve.