Oman may have suffered a heavy defeat in their Asia Cup 2025 debut, but skipper Jatinder Singh chose to highlight the positives, especially his side’s spirited bowling performance against former champions Pakistan at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Friday.
Pakistan posted 160/7 in their 20 overs, a total that seemed modest considering their batting strength. Oman’s bowlers, however, ensured the Men in Green never ran away with the game. Left-arm spinner Aamir Kaleem and seamer Shah Faisal picked up three wickets apiece, while Mohammad Nadeem chipped in with one, as Oman executed their bowling plans with discipline and commitment.
Speaking after the match, Singh was effusive in his praise for his bowlers.
“Restricting them under 160, it was really good, really proud of the boys – the way they bowled and fielded,” Singh said at the post-match presentation. “The boys were bang on target, they executed the plans they discussed, they were 10/10.”
However, Oman’s batting fell well short of expectations. Chasing 161, they were bundled out for just 67 in 16.4 overs, collapsing under the pressure of Pakistan’s spin-heavy attack.
Despite the defeat, Singh urged his players to stay positive and back themselves as the tournament progresses.
“Our team is a lot better than what we performed today, and I am confident we can do a lot better,” he added. “The message is simple – just be in the present and not think about who is bowling to you.”
For Oman, the result may sting, but their bowling display and competitive spirit provided a glimpse of their potential on the big stage. For Pakistan, meanwhile, it was a strong start to their Asia Cup campaign, with captain Salman Ali Agha pointing to areas of improvement even after a 93-run win.
As the tournament moves forward, Oman will look to regroup quickly and turn their fighting intent into results, while fans will be eager to see how the debutants respond in their upcoming fixtures.
