The Saudi Arabian Billiards and Snooker Federation allowed Mohammad to represent his country at the Games, where he lost in the quarterfinals to Thailand’s Dechwat Poomjaeng, but terminated his contract after he returned to Saudi Arabia. Also, Mohammad was told that his travel expenses will be deducted from his salary.
This bizarre incident was discovered when a Saudi player drew Mohammad in the first round of the snooker competition much to the surprise of the federation officials.
Mohammad’s contract is until February 2011, and both parties agreed the Afghani coach may be permitted to play outside the Kingdom but not play and coach at the same time in one event.
Mohammad’s conflict of interest showed when snooker federation officials noticed he favored beginners for inclusion to the team in international competitions although there were many experienced and talented players to choose from.
The federation and Dr. Rashid Al-Heraiwel, secretary-general at the Saudi Arabian Olympic Committee, will send a letter to the Olympic Council of Asia and the Games Organizing Committee demanding explanation how such a big blunder could happen.
Saudi Arabian Billiards & Snooker Federation President Hassan Abu Eish told Arab News “The media had blamed us though we didn’t know anything about his intention of participating in this event. It is against the legal procedure of any sport to issue two accreditation for the same person, and the 16th Asian Games organizing committee did that.”
“ If the coach wanted to participate, he should have informed the Saudi federation,” Abu Eish said.
“Mohammad apologized and admitted his mistake and that he did not ask permission and managed to get himself two accreditations,” he said.
Mohammad, 39, was snooker doubles silver medalist in the 2002 Busan Asian Games.
