Round of 16 set at Muscat Nights Snooker & Billiards

Muscat: The Round of 32 matches of the Muscat Nights Billiards and Snooker Championship were decided amid an atmosphere filled with excitement and competitiveness, as the qualifiers for the Round of 16 became clear following a series of strong encounters marked by closely matched technical levels. Several matches extended to decisive frames before qualification spots were confirmed. The championship is being held at the Arena Active Oman Hall at the OAA.
In the snooker competition, several top players secured their places in the Round of 16 following strong performances in the Round of 32. Iran’s Amir Hossein defeated Pakistan’s Waqar Ahmed 3–1, while Omani Sami al Hamrashdi advanced with a convincing 3–0 win over Taha Bashir. Iran’s Amir Suhail edged past Omani Abdulaziz al Sinani 3–2, and Afghan Mohammed Saleh progressed after a 3–0 victory over Ahmed Noman.

Elsewhere, Ali Hussain, Milad Kashani, Habib Sabah, Emad Adnan, Naddem Gull, Ehsan, Mohammed Noman, Siavash Mozayani, Suhaib Abed, Rafi Raffy, and Mohammed Elhami also advanced, with several matches decided in closely fought contests. Omani Omar al Busaidy qualified after defeating Haroon Ibrahim 3–1, ensuring Oman will be represented in the Round of 16 by Omar al Busaidy and Sami al Hamrashdi.
Meanwhile, the Round of 16 in the billiards competition promises strong and competitive matchups, according to the official draw. Abdulraouf faces Oudi Mohammed, while Haroon Ibrahim meets Wissam Dakkak in a clash between two experienced knockout-stage players. Hamza al Awidi takes on Hussain Mohan, and Hamza Al Sayed faces Qadeer Abbas in closely matched contests. Mark Anthony Calagayar plays Murtadha al Suri, Mohammed al Hasani meets Naddem Gull in a likely tight encounter, while Mohammed al Jasmi faces Mohammed al Hussaini. The Round of 16 concludes with a matchup between Nasser al Hinai and Alan Quartiero as the competition enters its decisive phase.

Omani national team player Omar al Busaidy highlighted the importance of the Championship as a key part of preparation for the 2026 season, noting that it offers valuable competition against world-class players. He added that regular participation in tournaments helps develop players’ levels and maintain competitive rhythm, stressing that the strong presence of Omani players is both promising and comparable to other participants.
UAE national team player Mohammed al Jasmi expressed his appreciation for the Oman Billiards and Snooker Committee for the excellent organisation of the Championship, praising the high professional standards and the committee’s experience in hosting international events.
Al Jasmi noted that the championship features a high technical level, highlighted by strong competition and direct matchups with top players from Oman and abroad, which adds significant value and excitement to the tournament. He added that his goal is to compete for first place, expressing hope for continued success in the upcoming rounds and wishing the organisers continued success.