KEY POINTS
- Mohammad Asif clinched his sixth world title by defeating India’s Brijesh Damani 4-3
- PCB Chairman hailed Asif’s victory as a proud moment for Pakistan
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s snooker maestro Mohammad Asif once again proved why he’s a force to be reckoned with, edging out India’s Brijesh Damani 4-3 in a pulsating final at the IBSF World Masters Championship in Bahrain.
After a solid 4-2 semi-final victory over India’s Manan Chandra, Asif entered the final brimming with confidence.
The showdown began cautiously, with both players feeling each other out. Asif grabbed the early initiative, winning the first two frames with clinical precision, but Damani fought back fiercely, seizing the next three frames and sending the crowd into a frenzy.
With the scoreboard reading 2-3, Asif showed why he is a six-time world champion. Reigniting his focus and flair, he fought back to level the contest at 3-3 before dominating the final frame with a commanding 78-9 finish.
The final scoreline—98-37, 75-55, 00-80, 49-52, 41-64, 91-29, 78-9—captured the intensity, tension, and sheer unpredictability of the match.
This victory not only marks Asif’s sixth world title but also adds another glittering chapter to his illustrious career, which includes three individual world crowns and two team championships, solidifying his legacy among the sport’s elite.
Naqvi applauds Asif’s heroics
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi was quick to celebrate Asif’s triumph, calling it a proud moment for Pakistan. “Well done, Mohammad Asif.
The nation is proud of you,” he said, highlighting the significance of defeating a fierce Indian rival on such a grand stage.
Naqvi praised Asif’s skill, composure, and dedication, describing the victory as a shining example of “exceptional talent and hard work.” He expressed hope that Pakistan’s young sporting talent would continue to soar.
“Insha’Allah, this winning streak of Pakistan and its young talent will carry on,” Naqvi said, reaffirming his faith in the country’s sporting future.
Double delight for Pakistan
Earlier on Friday, Pakistan’s Hasnain Akhtar secured the IBSF World U17 Snooker Championship crown with a commanding win over Wales’ Riley Powell, showcasing the strength of Pakistan’s emerging cue talent on the world stage.
