(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Hossein Vafaei kicked off his season with a strong 4-1 win over Julien Leclercq at the Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters, while expressing hope that his long-term neck injury is improving.
Vafaei’s match in Jeddah marked his first tournament outing since April’s Halo World Championship. He had skipped the Wuhan Open and British Open qualifiers and chose not to enter the Championship League. The Iranian, the Middle East’s top snooker player, impressed with a high break of 135 and now faces Martin O’Donnell in the fourth round.
“It was my first match, so I didn’t expect to play perfectly,” Vafaei said. “I need to improve bit by bit, but I’m happy with the result because it was important and offers valuable ranking points. I’ve been practicing hard despite challenges like visa issues. If something good happens, it will be a dream come true.”
The 30-year-old has been battling a spinal condition causing discomfort in his neck, shoulder, and left arm for seven months. However, he reports recent pain relief after resting and physiotherapy. “After this event, I’m heading back to Iran for a follow-up with my doctor. The issue is with one of my discs, and while I’m doing exercises, it will take time to heal,” he added.
Other exciting matches included China’s Chang Bingyu edging out Daniel Wells 4-3 in a thrilling encounter, despite Wells mounting a strong comeback late in the match. Chang now faces David Gilbert.
Stephen Maguire, fresh off a Championship League win, continued his good form with a 4-3 victory over Allan Taylor, overturning a 3-2 deficit with a century break in the sixth frame and dominating the decider.
Ukraine’s 19-year-old Iulian Boiko extended his winning streak with a 4-2 win against Jackson Page. Louis Heathcote recorded a 114 high break in a 4-0 whitewash of Lei Peifan. Wu Yize also impressed with a 105 break in a 4-1 win over Ashley Hugill, while Ben Woollaston secured a 4-1 victory against Chatchapong Nasa.
