IBSF extends helping hand to Asif

World governing body wants Pakistan cueist to train in England.

KARACHI:

The International Billiards and Snooker Federation (IBSF) is looking to facilitate former amateur world champion and Pakistan’s premier cueist Mohammad Asif’s training for his professional tenure.

IBSF Chairman Jim Lacey disclosed in an interview that a training academy for top level amateur players is being set up in Sheffield, England, which could help Asif.

“The training and access to the professional snooker leagues is an expensive proposition,” Lacey told The Express Tribune. “However, the IBSF is working closely with the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association to help amateur players reach the next level.

“They will be offered subsidised training and coaching, and Asif, with his fine record at the amateur level, can also benefit by training in Sheffield soon.”

The Pakistan cueist, who won the amateur world championship in 2012, has repeatedly expressed his desire to play professional snooker, but has cited lack of funds for hampering his quest.

Meanwhile, Lacey reposed his federation’s confidence in the Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Association (PBSA), who are set to host an Asian championship next month in Karachi.

Lacey visited Pakistan when an international event was staged in Karachi last year, and is now looking forward to make another visit this year.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my tour to Pakistan last time, and look forward to making an appearance at the event in August.”

PBSA President Alamgir Sheikh confirmed that some 15 countries are expected to take part in the event.

“We will have at least 15 countries participating in the championship next month,” stated Sheikh.

“The championship will run for seven days and at least eight local cueists are expected to take part in the tournament.”

Published in The Express Tribune, July 13^th, 2014.

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