Pakistan’s veteran cueists Mohammad Asif and Asjad Iqbal delivered a performance for the ages in Muscat, capturing the IBSF Team World Cup title after a gripping final against Hong Kong that swung wildly before ending in a burst of Pakistani brilliance.
The day began on a shaky note. Asjad, fresh off his run to the individual final, entered the opening frame against Chau Hon Man but found himself under immediate pressure, leaving Pakistan trailing 1-0. With momentum slipping, the responsibility fell on the 43-year-old Asif to steady the ship. After a back-and-forth frame, Pakistan levelled the proceedings.
The doubles frame, often the turning point in these finals, went against the Pakistan duo, leaving Hong Kong one step from the title. However, with the pressure mounting, three-time world champion Asif produced a stunning comeback to drag the final into a deciding frame.
The championship now lay on the shoulders of Asjad, up against the young but dangerous Wan. After a brief tactical exchange, Asjad found his chance. The 34-year-old pieced together a brilliant 104-point century, sealing the title even before he missed the final yellow. Pakistan had pulled off a comeback worthy of their status as former world champions.
As applause filled the arena, Asif and Asjad embraced their opponents and soaked in the moment. Their road to the trophy included a dominant 3-0 win over Qatar and a commanding 3-1 victory over arch-rivals India in the semi-finals. But the final demanded something more, and Pakistan’s cue masters delivered it with style.
This is Mohammad Asif’s second time winning the IBSF Team World Cup for Pakistan, after previously teaming up with Mohammad Sajjad in 2013. If this result is any indication, he is far from done.