KARACHI, March 31: Pakistan’s participation in the 20th Asian Snooker Championship being held in Kolkata is in doubt due to security clearance from India.

With less than three weeks to go for holding championship which runs from April 18-26, but Indian government yet to give clearance for four-member Pakistan squad.

President, Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Association (PBSA) Ali Asghar Valika confirmed Monday that Billiards and Snooker of India (BSAI) was facing difficulties in securing clearance for Pakistan cueists Muhammad Yousuf and Saleh Muhammad and delegate Shahnawaz Khan besides referee Shabbir Darulwala.

“We are in touch with BSAI President P.N.Roy, who is trying hard for Pakistan’s inclusion in Asian” Valika said.

However he admitted that Indian association was facing difficulties in this regard.

He said games ruling body of the continent, Asian Confederation of Billiards Sport (ACBS) had also told BSAI that this was not a bilateral contest so Pakistan should be given necessary clearance by Indian Interior Ministry.

PBSA chief said there are also doubts that the event may also be postponed due to mysterious Pneumonia that hit Far Eastern Region as players may be put in Quarantine on arrival in India.—APP