Colombo, January 10, 2025: Pakistan’s ace cueist Mohammad Asif showcased his dominance in the 3rd SAARC Snooker Championship, defeating Sri Lanka’s Thaha Irshath in a flawless performance at the Moors Sports Club, Colombo. Asif, the reigning world champion, triumphed without dropping a single frame, cementing his legacy in the sport.
The final began with Asif’s commanding start, effortlessly clinching the opening frame. In the second frame, Irshath briefly gained momentum but faltered with a costly pink-ball error, allowing Asif to recover and secure the frame 73-46.
Irshath began the third frame with promise after benefiting from an early scratch by Asif. However, inconsistent cue ball control left the table open for Asif, who capitalized with a brilliant 58-point clearance. Fueled by his growing momentum, Asif dominated the fourth and fifth frames, securing them 109-6 and 74-0, respectively, to seal a comprehensive victory.
This victory marks Mohammad Asif as the second Pakistani to win the SAARC Snooker Championship, following Asjad Iqbal’s inaugural win in 2019. Asif also maintained an unbeaten streak throughout the tournament, including a hard-fought 5-3 victory over compatriot Muhammad Naseem Akhtar in the semi-finals.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif extended their heartfelt congratulations to Asif on his remarkable achievement.
“Muhammad Asif has brought immense pride to Pakistan with his stellar performance,” President Zardari remarked, adding, “I pray for his continued success in the future.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also praised Asif’s accomplishment, stating, “Winning the SAARC Snooker Championship has brought Pakistan’s name into the global spotlight. The entire nation is proud of you.” The Prime Minister also conveyed his best wishes for Asif’s future endeavors.
With this victory, Asif not only solidifies his standing as one of Pakistan’s finest cueists but also inspires hope for the country’s future in the sport.
