Former world billiards champion Manoj Kothari passed away on Monday morning at the age of 67 following a massive cardiac arrest at a hospital in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu. He had recently undergone a liver transplant and was recovering before developing a lung infection, which led to complications. Kothari was one of India’s most accomplished cue sports players and a towering figure in billiards for over two decades. He achieved global recognition in 1990 when he won the World Billiards Championship, a landmark moment that placed Indian billiards firmly on the international map. Known for his precision, temperament and longevity, Kothari also dominated the domestic circuit, winning the state championship title on 16 occasions during his career. In recognition of his sustained contribution to Indian sport, Kothari was conferred with the Dhyan Chand Award in 2005, the country’s highest honour for lifetime achievement in sports and games. His influence extended beyond titles, with many younger players crediting him for raising professional standards and competitiveness within the sport. Earlier this year, Kothari was honoured with a Lifetime …