Pakistani Cueists Excel at IBSF 6 Reds Championship in Bahrain

Pakistani cueists have demonstrated remarkable skill at the IBSF World Masters, U17, U21 & Men 6-Red Snooker Championships, currently being held in Manama, Bahrain. Notable performances by Muhammad Asif and Ahsan Ramzan, both of whom remain unbeaten in the tournament, have captured international attention and highlighted the growing prominence of Pakistan in the world of cue sports.

The tournament, which began on July 18, 2025, has seen Hasnain Akhtar, the newly crowned IBSF U17 champion, achieve a stunning victory against Egypt's Mohamed Abdelkader, winning 4-0 with frame scores of 70-0, 45-11, 57-7, and 48-2. Ahsan Ramzan, the 2022 IBSF World Champion, also showcased his prowess by defeating Oman’s Sami Al Hamrashadi with a decisive 4-0 scoreline (60-1, 39-16, 48-9, 50-11). Similarly, Muhammad Asif, who claimed the IBSF Masters title earlier this year, triumphed over Ireland's Jay Chopra with an identical 4-0 result (66-0, 75-0, 54-8, 48-12).

In other matches, Ahsan Ramzan continued his winning streak by besting Bahrain’s Abdullah Mohammed 4-0 as well. Despite a setback against Hong Kong's Chau Hon Man, Hasnain Akhtar’s overall performance has been commendable; throughout the tournament, he has lost only one frame, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the sport.

The Pakistani contingent, fielding four players including Asif, Ahsan, Shahid Aftab, and Hasnain, is being managed by Naveed Kapadia, an international referee. Kapadia highlighted the historical significance of their achievements in this championship, noting that Hasnain's title marks a first for Pakistan in the U17 category, while Asif’s recent win ended a 19-year title drought in the Masters event, a title last secured by Muhammad Yousuf.

The conditions in Manama have been notably conducive to high-level performance, with players enjoying access to world-class facilities, including top-notch tables and accommodations at a five-star hotel. Kapadia remarked, “We have been very pleased with the arrangements. Past tournaments often took place in academies, but this championship offers a more relaxed and professional environment.”

As the tournament progresses, the implications for Pakistani cue sports are significant. The performances of these players not only elevate Pakistan's status in the international snooker community but also inspire younger athletes to pursue the sport. The success at the IBSF Championships may lead to increased support and investment in cue sports within Pakistan, fostering further development and nurturing future talent.

The championships will conclude on July 25, 2025, with expectations of more exciting matches and the potential for even more Pakistani victories. As the cueists continue to shine on this international stage, they are poised to leave a lasting impact on the future of snooker in Pakistan and beyond.