Derick Elomina discovered poker at 14, playing home games with his high school friends. What began as a pastime quickly grew into a passion that shaped his career. By 21, he entered the poker industry as a field reporter — just old enough to step foot inside the casino. Starting as a hand reporter, he steadily honed his craft, blending sharp observation with growing writing skills. Known for his dedication, he constantly roams the floor to capture the action, conduct interviews, and deliver live updates. With a strong commitment to the game and a passion for telling poker’s stories, Derick continues to build his path in the industry.

Updated: 2026.01.02

Sumit Sapra is an Indian professional poker player and former finance executive widely recognized as one of the most consistent performers on the Asian and international tournament circuits.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Sumit Sapra has total live earnings of $428,281. He is currently ranked in the top 30 on the India All Time Money List. His career-best live cash of $36,511 came from a deep run in the WPT500 Las Vegas at the Aria, where he finished 11th in a field of thousands.

In 2025, Sapra continued his success in Asia, recording a deep run in the APPT Manila Championship Main Event for PHP 289,000 (∼$4,950). Earlier that year, he secured $10,200 for a 53rd-place finish in the WPT Cambodia Championship. He is also a PokerStars Platinum Pass winner, highlighting his status among the elite of Indian poker.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from New Delhi, Sapra followed an unconventional path to professional poker, holding an engineering degree from IIT Delhi and an MBA from IIM Lucknow. Before turning professional in 2016, he enjoyed a successful career in high finance, including roles in private equity, project finance, and a stint as an equity analyst at Goldman Sachs. This analytical background has served him well as he transitioned into a full-time “grinder” on the global circuit, frequently traveling to major stops in the United States, Vietnam, Taiwan, and the Philippines.

Play Style & Strategy

Sapra is known for a highly analytical and data-driven play style, often leveraging his background in advanced mathematics and finance to navigate complex tournament situations. He is recognized as a formidable opponent in No Limit Hold’em, with a strategy that balances solid GTO principles with exploitative adjustments. His ability to maintain composure under pressure, a trait he attributes to his corporate leadership experience, has earned him numerous final table appearances and made him a sought-after mind in the Indian poker community.

Recent Attendances