Former national champion Mohammed Sajjad of Sargodha (pictured) recovered from a poor start, losing his opening match 1-4 against Chinese cueist Shi Hanqing, to beat Nazer Abdullah Asseri of Saudi Arabia 4-2. (file photo)

KARACHI National Champion Mohammed Asif got off to a sterling start in 25th Asian Snooker Championship with double victory in the opening two league matches in Tangshan, China, according to information received here on Monday.

The 27-year-old Asif, making his debut in the continental event, defeated Cao Xinlong of China 4-2.

In his second group 'E' match, Asif whipped Temoujin Tseveedash from Mongolia in four straight frames.

Former national champion Mohammed Sajjad of Sargodha recovered from a poor start, losing his opening match 1-4 against Chinese cueist Shi Hanqing, to beat Nazer Abdullah Asseri of Saudi Arabia 4-2.

Organizers were forced to prepare revised draws some players pulled out of the tournament.

Leading professional Thai player James Wattana who twice won the Asian event has returned to amateur circuit after nearly 15 years.

Both Pakistaniplayers will be playing their 3rd league match at 500 pm Pakistan Standard Time against Vietnam.

Pakistan will be playing a total four matches in the qualifying round due to the pullout of Macau from the championship.