KARACHI, Oct 21: The International Billiards and Snooker Federation (IBSF) World snooker championship has attracted 25 countries including the hosts. The world spectacle which envisages competition for both men and women would be played at the Arabian Sea Country Club (ASCC) here from Nov 7 to 20.

The number of nations which have confirmed their participation is less as compared to the last one held at The Netherlands, Arif Tahirbhai of the Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Association (PBSA) said on Friday.

He said the PBSA had set Oct 1 as the deadline for submission of entries which has already passed.

Referring to the draws he said it would be taken out by The Netherlands- based IBSF.

He disclosed that France who had initially shown its willingness to compete has backed out citing problems.

The PBSA has already announced top eight cueists of national ranking for competing in the championship. The number of home players may go up to complete the draw.