KARACHI: Veteran cueist Mohammad Asif smashed the highest break of the tournament as the top seeds delivered impressive performances on the third day of the National Snooker Championship here at the NBP Sports Complex on Thursday.
Asif, a three-time world champion, eclipsed the previous benchmark of 133 with a superb clearance of 134 in his 4-0 defeat against Aftab Baig. The NBP player, who also achieved a break of 112, affirmed his status as the main contender for the title.
The day belonged to the tournament’s elite, with defending champion Shahid Aftab maintaining his flawless record. The Punjab potter knocked out Mudassar Yaqoob 4-0, sealing his victory with a break of 108.
Former national champion Asjad Iqbal was equally ruthless, scoring two century breaks of 127 and 103 in a 4-0 win over Barjeesh Khan.
Their dominance highlighted a trend among the favorites. Last year’s runner-up Mohammad Sajjad claimed a 4-0 victory, while 2022 world champion Ahsan Ramzan, 20, also won his match 4-0 against Mohamamd Abdullah.
The other players maintained good form. Abdul Sattar, who held the previous break high, won 4-0 with a break of 112. Ahmar Tariq, Rana Irfan and Aakash Rafique also registered victories to strengthen their prospects in the round of 16.
Further down the order, Ian Mark John and Amir Sohail recorded 4-2 victories, while Sheikh Mohammad Mudassir won a tense seven-frame encounter against Ali Raza. Mubashir Raza continued his momentum with a 4-1 victory over compatriot Sohaib Asad.
The group stage continues on Friday with the final round, determining the 24 players who will advance to the knockout stage.
Published in Dawn, January 16, 2026
