KARACHI: Qualifiers Pakistan took a winning start in the Snooker World Cup when they shocked former world champions and eighth seed Republic of Ireland 3-2 in the opening group ‘A’ match in Bangkok Convention Centre on Monday.
According to results made available here, national champion Shahid Aftab was the main architect of Pakistan’s triumph as he won both his singles in addition to doubles with former Asian No 2 Mohammad Sajjad. The latter lost both his singles.
Republic of Ireland should curse to them as despite scoring two century breaks in first and fifth frames fell to Pakistan. Ken Doherty hammered a break of 111 against Sajjad in the opener while Fergal O’ Brian piled up 101 in the fifth.
Shahid also struck a break of 74 against Brian in the second frame.
Pakistan meets Germany in their second group match on Tuesday. Pakistan’s third match against Wales is slated for Thursday followed by last group fixture against Egypt on Friday.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Association (PBSA) have commended the performance of the two players against a reputed outfit. “It’s a good omen and can help our team advance to the next stage,” the PBSA said in a statement.
Results:
Group ‘A’: Pakistan bt Republic of Ireland 3-2
Singles: Mohammad Sajjad lost to Ken Doherty; Shahid Aftab bt Fergal O’Brien.
Doubles: Mohammad Sajjad and Shahid Aftab bt Ken Doherty and Fergal O’ Brien.
Singles: Shahid Aftab bt Ken Doherty; Mohammad Sajjad lost Fergal O’Brien.
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