COLOMBO: Pakistan’s veteran cueist Mohammad Asif delivered a stunning performance to defeat Sri Lanka’s Thaha Irshath and claim the 3rd SAARC Snooker Championship title at the Moors Sports Club on Friday.
In a one-sided final, the reigning world champion showcased his exceptional skills, winning the match in straight frames to secure the prestigious title. With this victory, Asif becomes the second Pakistani player to win the SAARC Snooker Championship, following in the footsteps of Asjad Iqbal, who claimed the inaugural title in 2019.
Asif dominated the first frame with a comfortable 67-point break. In the second frame, Irshath displayed some resistance, gaining the upper hand momentarily. However, a critical mistake on the pink ball allowed Asif to recover and take the frame 73-46.
The third frame began with an uncharacteristic scratch from Asif, giving Irshath an early advantage. Yet, the Sri Lankan failed to maintain control, allowing Asif to execute a brilliant 58-point clearance and seize the frame.
By the fourth frame, Asif was unstoppable. With a superb 50-point break, he outclassed Irshath 109-6. In the final frame, Asif delivered a flawless 74-0 win, capping off a dominant performance to clinch the title in style.
Throughout the tournament, Asif remained unbeaten, including a thrilling semi-final win against fellow Pakistani Muhammad Naseem Akhtar, who had also been undefeated prior to their clash.
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