“I personally think it’s difficult to improve and progress without advice and coaching,” Sajjad said. —File photo by White Star

KARACHI: Pakistan's leading cueist Muhammad Sajjad said that the country is full of snooker talent but they need a good coach to go places in the international arena.

“A coach plays a crucial role in preparing the players mentally and psychologically and looking at their minor deficiencies to help them improve,” he told APP in an interview on Monday.

“Snooker is a precision sport and by closely monitoring the players, the coach can tell the players about the shortcomings and work out a plan to overcome those problems,” said last year’s Asian championship runner-up.

“I personally think it’s difficult to improve and progress without advice and coaching,” he commented.

He said Pakistan enjoyed a good reputation at the Asian and world level but good coaching can be very useful in further developing players.

He expressed hope that the Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Association (PBSA) was serious about hiring the services of foreign coach.

“Participation of Pakistani players in the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association clinic may also benefit Pakistani players if they are invited to attend it.”

Sajjad said he was personally disappointed with his showing this year but was working very hard to stage a comeback at the national and international level.

“Apart from domestic events, my target will be to get a place in the Pakistan team for the world championship to be held later this year.”

He said he had improved his game by playing against the best professionals but he needed a lot more hard work to make his mark at the world level.