KARACHI: The Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Association (PBSA) has plunged into a severe financial crisis, threatening the participation of Pakistani cueists in upcoming international competitions.
In a statement issued on Monday, the PBSA appealed to the federal government to take immediate notice of the situation and release urgently needed funds before the start of the 2025–26 snooker season.
“The Association is just around the corner to start its snooker season for the fiscal year 2025–2026 with a critical financial situation,” the PBSA said. The statement revealed that the PBSA had self-financed Pakistan’s participation in four major international events over the past year — held in Mongolia, Qatar, Sri Lanka, and the IBSF World Championship. However, without government support, future participation remains uncertain.
The association expressed concern over sending its players to key international events this season, including the Asian Team & 6 Red Championship in Sri Lanka later this month, the Commonwealth Championship in Mauritius in July, and the World Games in China scheduled for August.
“Due to the present situation prevailing, the PBSA foresees difficult times ahead to fulfill its international commitments for the year 2025–2026,” the statement warned, adding that the domestic snoo-ker circuit and secretariat operations are also at risk.
Despite strong performances by national players, the PBSA said it is still awaiting the release of special grants needed to cover international expenses. It called on the Federal Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) to intervene. “This will enable the Association to start the current snooker season with a firm commitment to further promote the game of snooker in Pakistan,” the PBSA added.
