KARACHI, Sept 17: Pakistan’s number three Naveen Perwani defended his title successfully beating veteran Muhammad Yousuf in the final of 19th Latif Masters snooker championship on Saturday at Amir Bux Billiards Hall, Karachi Club.

Defending champion Naveen outclassed former world champion Yousuf 7:3 and earned winner’s prize money of Rs100000.

Last year he defeated Atiq Latif Bux to clinch the trophy. Yousuf received Rs.50,000.

Contrary to Yousuf who seemed to be off colour, Naveen played outstanding game in the final to emerge winner.

Naveen took the first frame 58-45 and increased it to 2:0 by winning the second frame 53:38. He smashed a break of 66 points in the third set to gain a commanding 3-0 advantage.

Tired looking Yousuf, who was also complaining pain in his right shoulder reduced the lead by snatching fourth frame 60-53.

Naveen recorded a break of 44 to continue his domination by overpowering Yousuf 98-03 in the frame and took a big lead of 6:1 by grabbing the next two frames 53-38 and 87-47 with breaks of 44 and 70.

Yousuf hit back winning the eight and ninth frames 77-66 and 78-28 that also includes a break of 66 in the ninth.

Naveen gave no chance to his more illustrious rival after getting an opportunity in the tenth set, won it 54-37 to seal a 7:3 victory.

Result: Naveen Perwani bt Muhammad Yousuf 7:3 58-45, 53-38, 84-01, 53-60, 98-03,53-38, 87-47, 66-77, 28-78, 54-37.—PPI