Pakistan's Mohammad Asif, Asjad Iqbal crowned IBSF World Cup champions

Pakistan’s seasoned cueists Muhammad Asif and Asjad Iqbal produced a masterclass under pressure to secure the IBSF Snooker World Cup Team Championship in Muscat, rallying from the brink of defeat to overpower Hong Kong China 2 in a nail-biting 3–2 victory.

Hong Kong drew early momentum when Chau Hon Man dominated Asjad in the opening frame with a commanding 94–0 win, powered by an 85 break. Facing an early setback, Pakistan turned to their most experienced hand, 43-year-old former world champion Asif, who responded with composure. He delivered a brilliant 82 break to level the match, restoring stability at a crucial point.

The doubles frame slipped away from Pakistan, putting Hong Kong one win from the title. But as the pressure intensified, Asif rose to the moment once more. In the reverse singles, he crafted a clinical 100 break, dragging the contest into a decisive final frame and keeping Pakistan’s hopes alive.

With the championship now on the line, Asjad Iqbal stepped up with remarkable poise. After a brief tactical battle, he seized control and constructed a superb 104-point century, shutting out Nansen Wan 104–0 and sealing Pakistan’s remarkable turnaround.

This triumph was not only about the final. Pakistan’s path to the title included a spotless 3–0 victory over Qatar and a commanding 3–1 win against arch-rivals India in the semi-finals. But the final demanded their very best, and Asif and Asjad delivered with style and steel.

For Asif, the win adds another milestone to an already illustrious career. This championship marks his seventh world title, comprising three team world crowns, three individual world titles, and one World Masters victory.

Pakistan’s victory in Muscat stands as a testament to experience, resilience, and sheer brilliance under pressure, cementing their reputation as one of the top forces in world snooker.