LAHORE Pakistans latest tennis sensation Samir Iftikhar powered into the singles and doubles semi-finals of the ITF Junior World Ranking Oman Open International Tournaments second leg. Samir crushed Cem Ilkel of Turkey in straight sets 6/1, 6/2 and came a step closer to his maiden ITF singles title of the tournament being held at Sports City Tennis Stadium in Jordan from July 26 to 30. Later, pairing with Sultan Zaid, the Pakistan-Kuwait duo, fresh from their ITF doubles title last weeks first leg, outplayed Kevin Albonnetti of Italy and Abu Deyah of Jordon 6/3, 6/2. The pair had sent Indian pair of Mehra and Singh packing by hammering them 6/1, 6/1 in the earlier round. Samir will now meet a tough opponent in Kevin Albonnetti from Italy who last week was the finalist of the first leg of the event and has upset number 3 seed and world number 232 Arjun Kandhe of India 7/6, 7/5 to reach the semi-finals. The match is believed to be a crowd thriller and young Samir will have to bring out every shot out of his armoury to beat the Italian. Samir who is first cousin of tennis ace Aisamul Haq said in post match telephonic interview said: I am really pleased with my form and the doubles title last week has raised my confidence. I will try my best to win the singles and doubles title and make Pakistan proud. On a question about his chances against Italian Kevin Alboneti, he said: He is a very tough player and has beaten several top ranked players but I will have to play really well to beat him.