Doha, Qatar — November 6, 2025: Pakistan cueist Shahid Aftab continued his stellar performance at the IBSF World Snooker Championship 2025 in Doha, securing a 4-2 victory over India’s Paras Gupta in a thrilling Round of 16 match. This win guarantees Aftab a spot in the pre-quarterfinals, marking another milestone for Pakistan on the international snooker stage.
Match Highlights
The match featured intense competition, with frame scores of 73-25, 27-94, 77(72)-36, 58-76, 122(62)-6, and 60-49. Aftab’s 72-point break in the third frame and an impressive 122-point break in the fifth frame showcased his skill, strategy, and composure under pressure.
Aftab began his campaign with a 4-0 victory over South Korea’s Hwang Chulho, including a standout 105-point break in the final frame. In the Round of 32, he defeated Bahrain’s Punait Saqer 4-1, recovering from an opening-frame loss to dominate the following frames.
Pakistan’s Strong Lineup
Shahid Aftab is part of Pakistan’s five-member contingent, confirmed by the Pakistan Billiards & Snooker Association (PBSA). The squad includes three-time world champion Mohammad Asif, Asjad Iqbal, Muhammad Sajjad, and emerging talent Muhammad Hasnain Akhtar, highlighting the depth of Pakistan’s cue-sports talent.
Other Notable Results
Former world number 2 Muhammad Sajjad lost 4-2 to Hong Kong’s Fung Kwok Wai in the Round of 32 but still advanced under the tournament structure, keeping Pakistan’s hopes alive in the championship.
Significance of the Victory
Shahid Aftab’s win strengthens Pakistan’s standing in the IBSF World Snooker Championship and highlights his consistent international performance, following his domestic triumph as Pakistan National Snooker Champion 2025. His precise gameplay and calm under pressure make him a serious contender for the upcoming quarterfinals.
As the championship moves forward, Aftab aims to maintain his momentum and compete for a place in the quarterfinals and beyond, representing Pakistan on the global snooker stage.
