Imran, Saqib upset Shehram, Sohail in National Snooker

KARACHI—Two Punjab qualifiers Imran Qamar and Saqib Butt pulled-off major surprises on the second day of 33rd National Snooker Championship for “Mazhar Puri” at Karachi Gymkhana Billiards Hall here on Sunday.
Gujranwala’s Dr.Imran demonstrated skilful potting, cue control and smart tactical play to shock sixth seed Shehram Changezi from Islamabad in four straight frames. Highly talented Shehram, who won his first major title in his hometown last year, was totally outclassed by an inspired Imran.
Saqib Butt emerged as the other star of the day when he toppled International Sohail Shehzad of Sindh 4-1. Last championship runner-up and southpaw Vishan Gir was given a testing time by Nauman Awan from Punjab before going down fighting after an exciting seven frame 4-3.
Punjab’s Muhammad Imtiaz Sarwar missed the opportunity of registering the first century break in his 4-1 win against Muhammad Afzal. He was content with 97 break after missing the pink in the fourth pocket in the fifth frame.
A frame each was confiscated from former National Champion and top seed Saleh Muhammad and newcomer Mudassar for reporting late. However, Saleh easily disposed off his opponent 3-1.
Mudassar has the honour of smashing 93 break in third frame. But Interestingly Saleh, who is known for his break-building failed to show his firework.
Other top four Muhammad Yousuf, Khurram Agha and Naveen Perwani faced no real challenge before winning their matches. But second seed Imran Shehzad of Punjab recovered after being 1-2 down before overcoming his province-mate Qadeer Butt 4-2.
Besides Vishan Gir, Raees Khan of Punjab collected his second win in as many days. Following are results: Saleh Muhammad (NWFP) bt Mudassar Yaqoob (NWFP) 3-1(76-39, 74-58, 08-94, 60-50) Imran Shehzad (Pjb) bt Qadeer Butt (Pjb) 4-2 (20-63, 91-21, 22-71, 67-38, 59-25, 65-31) Khurram Agha (Sindh) bt Tahir Abbas.—Online