KARACHI: The Abu Dhabi bound four Pakistani cueists have expressed their determination to win laurels at the fourth Asian team event and fifth 6-Reds snooker championships being held there from May 18 to 26.

“We’ve undergone strenuous one week training in the city that will immensely benefit us to win at least one of the two titles,” the quartet told Dawn before winding up camp training on the eve of their departure to Abu Dhabi in the wee hours of Tuesday.

Former world amateur snooker champion Mohammad Asif admitted that Pakistani cueists including him have been off colours in the last two to three tournaments and resolve to make amends.

“Being the senior most, I’ll also guide two new cueists Mohammad Bilal and Babar Masih who will feature in the Asian team and 6-Reds events for the first time,” said Asif, who is recipient of Pride of Performance.

Asjad Iqbal, 25, who held record three NBP ranking titles under his belt, said he will try to repeat his world team and 6-Reds performance at Abu Dhabi.

He has won silver in the world team event together with Shahid Aftab and a bronze in the 6-Reds in the event held in the metropolis last year.

National champion Bilal and Pakistan No 4 Babar Masih expressed optimism to return victorious.

Team: Mohammad Asif, Asjad Iqbal, Mohammad Bilal and Babar Masih. Officials: Shabbir Daruwala and Naved Kapadia (referees).

Published in Dawn, May 17th, 2016