Islamabad, Jan 29: The National Snooker Championship 2024/25 has entered its knockout phase, with the pre-quarterfinal lineup confirmed following the conclusion of the league stage at the NBP Sports Complex. As competition heats up, defending champion Asjad Iqbal and several top contenders have secured their places in the last 16, setting the stage for intense clashes.
Asjad Iqbal bounced back from a surprise defeat to Ian Mark John, proving his champion credentials with a hard-fought 4-2 victory over Faisal Daniyal (73-07, 78-19, 47-60, 63-36, 57-65, 94(71)-16). Despite a strong start, Asjad faced resistance from Faisal, but a stunning break of 71 in the final frame ensured his progression.
Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Sharjeel Mehmood caused a major upset by knocking out sixth-seed Shan Namat of Islamabad with a commanding 4-2 win (69-43, 67-53, 62-38, 57-70, 33-62, 72-12). Sharjeel dominated early, racing to a 3-0 lead before Shan mounted a brief comeback. However, Sharjeel held his composure to clinch victory and move into the last 16.
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Despite losses in their final group matches, Zulfiqar A. Qadir and Mubashir Raza advanced to the pre-quarterfinals. Zulfiqar fell to Shahid Aftab 4-2 (12-86(81), 78-36, 40-54, 55-50, 59-4, 12-66, 98(98)-36), while Mubashir was edged out in a thrilling 4-3 encounter by Ahsan Ramzan (80(52)-16, 90(90)-0, 9-61, 128(113)-0, 32-75, 57-70, 130(130)-0). Ahsan, the 2021 World Amateur Champion, delivered a masterclass with two-century breaks but was eliminated despite his late surge.
As the pre-quarterfinals begin, snooker fans can expect high stakes battles and electrifying performances. With seasoned players and rising stars competing for glory, the journey to the championship promises thrilling action.
