KARACHI: Veteran cueist Mohammad Asif produced the tournament’s highest break as top seeds continued their commanding performances on the third day of the National Snooker Championship at the NBP Sports Complex on Thursday.
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Asif, a three-time world champion, recorded a superb 134-clearance, surpassing the previous benchmark of 133, during his 4-0 rout of Aftab Baig. He also notched a 112 break, cementing his status as a top title contender.
Defending champion Shahid Aftab maintained his flawless form, defeating Mudassar Yaqoob 4-0, finishing the match with a 108 break. Former national champion Asjad Iqbal was equally dominant, producing two century breaks of 127 and 103 in a 4-0 victory against Barjeesh Khan.
Other favourites also asserted their dominance. Last year’s runner-up Mohammad Sajjad secured a 4-0 win, while 2022 world champion Ahsan Ramzan, 20, defeated Mohammad Abdullah 4-0. Abdul Sattar, holder of the previous highest break, triumphed 4-0 with a 112 break. Ahmar Tariq, Rana Irfan, and Aakash Rafique also recorded wins to strengthen their chances of reaching the knockout stage.
Meanwhile, Ian Mark John and Amir Sohail won 4-2 matches, Sheikh Mohammad Mudassir edged past Ali Raza in a tense seven-frame battle, and Mubashir Raza continued his strong run with a 4-1 win over fellow century-maker Sohaib Asad.
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The group stage will conclude on Friday, deciding the 24 players who will advance to the knockout rounds. With several high breaks already registered, the championship promises intense competition as the elite cueists vie for the national title.