Asif is likely to meet PM Nawaz Sharif along with PBSA President Alamgir Sheikh on April 29. PHOTO: EXPRESS/FILE
Hamza will represent Pakistan in the event scheduled to begin on April 26 in the UAE, along with Mohammad Asif Toba and Asjad Iqbal.
And Hamza, the youngest national champion, feels that he has the perfect chance to rise to the occasion.
“I’m definitely planning to fight for the Asian title,” Hamza told The Express Tribune.
“There is every chance that a Pakistani can become a champion because we’ve been playing well and have undergone proper training.”
Hamza stressed that his approach would be cautious as he wanted to play safe and progress in the competition before firing up his game.
The youngster emphasised that the trio would have each other’s back during the event in order to work on their game and strategies.
Meanwhile, Toba said that he would give his best in the mega event and is not worried by problems with his vision.
“There are concerns about me but I have full confidence in my ability that I can do well,” said Toba.
World champion Asif to meet PM
Mohammad Asif finally gained genuine hope that he will receive his Rs15 million prize money from the government for winning the world individual and team championships.
Asif is likely to meet Prime Minister (PM) Nawaz Sharif along with Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Association (PBSA) President Alamgir Sheikh on April 29.
The 31-year-old won the world championship back in December 2012, but is yet to be rewarded as per the national sports policy. He had recently revealed that he was starting to lose focus because of the non-payment, but all that could change soon. “I’ve great hopes that PM Sharif would acknowledge my efforts and I’ll be given my rightful prize money,” said Asif.
“It’s really important to acknowledge champions in order to inspire youth. Otherwise, our youngsters will stop picking up the game of snooker.”
Published in The Express Tribune, April 25th, 2014.
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