Dreaming big: Hamza begins process for professional circuit

Asian champion could become the first Pakistani to achieve this feat.

KARACHI: Asian champion Hamza Akbar registered himself with the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) to officially kick-start the process of making his way into the professional circuit.

The Faisalabad-based cueist had been trying to apply for a UK visa in order to play in the competition starting next month till he was told by the relevant authorities that he required a letter from the WPBSA first.

However, when the 21-year-old sent a request to the WPBSA, he was further advised that he needed to register with the body before they could issue a letter.

“I registered my name today with the WPBSA to begin my dream of playing in the professional circuit,” Hamza told The Express Tribune. “It has been a little hectic getting my visa since I didn’t know the proper process at first. But now I’ve paid the registration fees to the WPBSA and they have told me that I’ll get the letter in a day or two.”

According to Hamza, despite the minor hindrances, things were going smoothly and he was waiting anxiously to become the first Pakistani player to play in the professional circuit. However, he needed help from those who could provide him the funds to make the breakthrough a proper success.

“I want to appeal to those people in Pakistan who can come forward and help me with my dream,” said the youngster. “Some people have aided me along the way, but the big names who often give cash awards to athletes have not lent a helping hand to me yet. Their assistance would be a great boost as whatever I’ll get from the government will all be used for my expenses in the professional circuit, and I will need something extra to continue with my career.”

Published in The Express Tribune, June 27^th,  2015.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.