WPT Cambodia Championship 2025: Indian Players Shine on the International Stage

The prestigious WPT Cambodia Championship is underway at NagaWorld Integrated Resort in Phnom Penh, running from February 19 to 26, 2025. With a $3,500 buy-in, this World Poker Tour (WPT) event has attracted a strong field of competitors from around the globe, including top Indian professionals making their mark on the international stage. The rise of poker in India has led to an increasing number of players excelling in global events, showcasing their strategic acumen and competitive spirit.

Chip Leaders and Tournament Overview

As of the latest chip counts, Ivan Karatayeu leads the field with 599,500 chips, closely followed by Joshua Gebissa (571,000 chips) and Daniel Neilson (483,000 chips). The competition is heating up as players strategize for a deep run in this highly anticipated event.

Top Indian Players Making an Impact

Several Indian players have put up stellar performances, positioning themselves for a potential title run. Here are the top-performing Indian players and their chip counts:

1. Apoorva Goel – 321,000 chips
   • Apoorva Goel has consistently showcased his poker prowess, with total live earnings of $535,783. His best live cash of $177,732 in 2017 underscores his ability to thrive in high-stakes tournaments. His experience and calm demeanor under pressure make him a formidable competitor.
2. Deepankur Gupta – 290,500 chips
   • With total live earnings of $149,862, Deepankur Gupta has made a mark on the poker in India scene. His best live cash of $40,000 and his strategic approach to the game have earned him recognition, ranking 69th on India’s All-Time Money List.
3. Asish Ghosh – 254,500 chips
   • Asish Ghosh boasts total live earnings of $64,346, with his best live cash being $26,852. His consistent performances have positioned him 170th on India’s All-Time Money List. Ghosh’s deep understanding of tournament dynamics makes him a key player to watch.
4. Kunal Patni – 215,500 chips
   • A veteran of poker in India, Kunal Patni the brand ambassador of Natural8 India has amassed total live earnings of $1,260,022, with his best live cash being $115,819. Residing in Goa, Patni ranks 9th on India’s All-Time Money List. His disciplined play style has earned him multiple deep runs in major events.
5. Karan Sitlani – 201,500 chips
   • With total live earnings of $48,347 and a best live cash of $30,930, Karan Sitlani has demonstrated his ability to compete at high levels. He stands at 212th on India’s All-Time Money List. His calculated moves and patient playstyle make him a serious contender.
6. Ankit Ahuja – 189,500 chips
   • Ankit Ahuja has total live earnings of $2,919,338, with his best live cash reaching $362,365. One of India’s strongest international competitors, he continues to impress in high-stakes tournaments.
7. Rahul Melwani – 136,500 chips
   • With total live earnings of $200,000, Rahul Melwani has steadily built his reputation as a strong tournament player.
8. Amit Kaushik – 121,500 chips
   • Amit Kaushik has displayed great promise with total live earnings of $100,000, proving to be an emerging talent in poker in India.
9. Dhaval Mudgal – 113,000 chips
   • Dhaval Mudgal, with total live earnings of $500,000, has consistently performed well in international tournaments.
10. Ankit Wadhawan – 99,500 chips

• Known for his resilience, Ankit Wadhawan has total live earnings of $300,000 and is aiming for another deep run.

11. Abhinav Iyer – 93,500 chips

• A WSOP bracelet winner, Abhinav Iyer has earned $1,600,000+ in live tournaments and remains a top player in India.

12. Sumit Sapra – 92,500 chips

• A respected figure in Indian poker, Sumit Sapra has built a strong career in both live and online tournaments.

13. Nikesh Chawla – 78,000 chips

• With a calculated and disciplined playstyle, Nikesh Chawla continues to make strides in major events.

14. Ritesh Khatwani – 73,500 chips

• A rising player in India’s poker circuit, Ritesh Khatwani is making waves with solid performances.

15. Arun Sriram – 72,500 chips

• Arun Sriram is proving his mettle with deep tournament runs, adding to India’s growing poker reputation.

16. Somashekar Nahadeva – 69,000 chips

• With steady results in major events, Somashekar continues to develop into a strong competitor.

17. Aditya Agarwal – 62,500 chips

• A pioneer in Indian poker, Aditya Agarwal has over $1,000,000 in live earnings and is an inspiration for many.

18. Harsh Bubna – 60,000 chips

• A promising talent, Harsh Bubna is establishing himself with strong showings in international tournaments.

19. Akash Malik – 56,500 chips

• Akash Malik is climbing the poker ranks, proving to be a disciplined and formidable competitor.

20. Abhijith Cheruku – 51,500 chips

• Abhijith Cheruku is a newer player making a name for himself in high-stakes tournament circuits.

India’s Growing Presence in International Poker

India’s poker scene has been witnessing exponential growth over the past decade. Indian players are consistently making final tables and securing major wins in global tournaments. The WPT Cambodia Championship 2025 is another testament to India’s rising poker talent, with multiple players vying for a deep finish. The game has transformed from a niche activity into a highly competitive industry, where Indian professionals continue to gain recognition worldwide.

Final Thoughts

For those passionate about poker in India, PokerBol serves as a premier platform for the latest poker news, strategy insights, and industry trends. Whether you are an aspiring player or a seasoned professional, PokerBol is your go-to destination for staying informed about the evolving poker landscape. Stay connected for more updates on the WPT Cambodia 2025, deep runs, final table appearances, and thrilling poker action from the world’s best players.

Sources

• World Poker Tour (WPT)
• The Hendon Mob Poker Database