---
title: "Nellore Hosts Top-Tier Andhra State Carrom Championship as 200 Players Vie for National Spots"
url: https://projectchintan.com/article/nellore-hosts-top-tier-andhra-state-carrom-championship-as-200-players-vie-for-n-z80xm
publisher: Project Chintan
author: Project Chintan Newsroom
section: India
published: 2026-07-31T15:50:59.000Z
modified: 2026-07-31T18:01:17.879Z
language: en-IN
---

# Nellore Hosts Top-Tier Andhra State Carrom Championship as 200 Players Vie for National Spots

The Nellore Club became the epicenter of regional carrom on Friday as the Andhra State 1st Ranking Tournament commenced. Nearly 200 athletes are competing for a chance to join the state team in national competitions.

## Key takeaways

- The Andhra State 1st Ranking Carrom Tournament 2026 began on July 31 at the Nellore Club.
- Nearly 200 players from various districts are competing in the three-day championship.
- The top six finishers in both men's and women's categories will qualify for the national team.
- The Andhra Pradesh government is offering cash incentives of up to 10 lakh rupees for elite athletes.

## Statewide Competition Begins at Nellore Club

The Andhra State 1st Ranking Carrom Tournament–2026 (Men & Women) officially opened on July 31, 2026, at the Nellore Club. This three-day event, organized by the District Carrom Association under the Andhra State Carrom Association (ASCA), has drawn approximately 200 competitors from across various districts. The tournament serves as a critical selection ground for the state's elite players.

### Financial Incentives and Government Support

MLA Kotamreddy Sridhar Reddy inaugurated the proceedings with a ceremonial opening strike. During his address, the MLA highlighted the Andhra Pradesh government's commitment to athletic development, specifically noting that top-performing athletes are eligible for cash incentives reaching ₹10 lakh. He urged participants to leverage these resources to elevate their performance on national and international stages.

### Path to National Selection

The stakes for the participants extend beyond regional titles. Shaik Abdul Jaleel, General Secretary of the ASCA, confirmed that the top six finishers in both the Men’s and Women’s divisions will earn spots on the Andhra Pradesh state team for upcoming national-level tournaments. Tournament Co-Chairman and former Ranji Cricketer Malireddy Kotareddy also spoke to the athletes, identifying discipline, consistent practice, and dedication as the fundamental requirements for competitive success.
- Total Participants: 200 players from multiple districts.
- Selection Criteria: Top 6 men and top 6 women advance to nationals.
- State Support: Up to ₹10 lakh in incentives for outstanding sportspersons.

Source: The Hindu — National

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Canonical: https://projectchintan.com/article/nellore-hosts-top-tier-andhra-state-carrom-championship-as-200-players-vie-for-n-z80xm
Reported from: The Hindu — National