In a one-sided affair at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Pakistan kicked off their Asia Cup 2025 campaign with a resounding 93-run victory over debutants Oman in the 4th match of Group A. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan posted a challenging 160/7 in their 20 overs, powered by Mohammad Haris’s explosive half-century.
Oman’s bowlers fought back valiantly, but their batting lineup crumbled under pressure, folding for just 67 in 16.4 overs. This emphatic win boosts Pakistan’s net run rate ahead of their high-stakes clash against India on September 14.
The match, marking the first-ever T20I encounter between the two sides, showcased Pakistan’s depth in both batting and bowling. Mohammad Haris was rightfully named Player of the Match for his match-defining 66 off 43 balls, providing stability after an early wobble.
For Oman, making their Asia Cup debut amid internal challenges like a pay dispute in their cricket administration, it was a harsh learning curve, but their bowlers offered glimpses of promise.
Toss and Early Drama: Pakistan’s Batting Struggles and Haris’s Rescue Act
Pakistan captain Salman Agha had no hesitation in electing to bat first on a pitch known for assisting spinners later in the game. The decision seemed shaky early on as Saim Ayub fell for a duck in the second ball of the innings, caught off Mohammad Nadeem’s bowling. Sahibzada Farhan joined Mohammad Haris at the crease, and the duo steadied the ship with a 70-run partnership.
Haris, promoted to No. 3, unleashed his aggressive strokeplay, smashing six fours and three sixes in his innings. He reached his half-century with a boundary off Aamir Kaleem and looked set for a bigger score before holing out to long-on for 66. Farhan contributed a patient 29, but Oman’s spinners turned the screws post-Haris. Aamir Kaleem (3/31) and Shah Faisal (3/34) shared six wickets, dismissing key players like Salman Agha (golden duck). Mohammad Nadeem chipped in with 1/25 as Pakistan lost momentum, finishing at 160/7. Fakhar Zaman (23*) and Mohammad Nawaz (19) added quick runs at the death.
Oman’s bowling effort was commendable, restricting a star-studded Pakistan lineup to a par total on a surface that offered grip for spinners. Kaleem, Oman’s experienced all-rounder, was the standout, using variations to deceive the batters.
Pakistan’s Bowling Masterclass: Spinners and Seamers Dismantle Oman
Defending 161, Pakistan’s bowlers, led by their spin-heavy attack, made short work of Oman’s batting. The debutants started cautiously but lost Hammad Mirza (27), their top scorer, early to Shaheen Afridi’s pace. Aamir Kaleem briefly resisted with 13 runs, including a six, but the middle order collapsed spectacularly.
Sufiyan Muqeem (2/7) was the wrecker-in-chief, his left-arm spin accounting for crucial wickets including Mohammad Nadeem cheaply. Faheem Ashraf (2 wickets) and Mohammad Nawaz supported brilliantly, while Shaheen Afridi and Abrar Ahmed picked up one each. Oman lost wickets in clusters, unable to handle the turning ball or the seam movement under lights. Their innings ended at 67 all out, their second-lowest T20I total after 47 against England in the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Pakistan’s strategy of playing a spin-oriented attack, similar to India’s approach in their opener against UAE, paid dividends. The conditions in Dubai, with dry pitches and dew factor, favored the team bowling second, but Pakistan’s execution was flawless.
Key Performers: Haris Shines, Oman’s Bowlers Impress Despite Defeat
- Mohammad Haris (Pakistan): 66 off 43 balls (6×4, 3×6). His fiery knock rescued Pakistan from 1/1 and set the tone. Player of the Match award underscores his all-round impact, including sharp keeping.
- Aamir Kaleem (Oman): 3/31 and 13 runs. The veteran all-rounder was Oman’s best, troubling Pakistan’s batters with his left-arm spin.
- Shah Faisal (Oman): 3/34. The pacer’s variations, including cutters, pegged back Pakistan’s middle order.
- Sufiyan Muqeem (Pakistan): 2/7 in 3.4 overs. The youngster’s economical spell dismantled Oman’s chase.
Pakistan’s fielding was sharp, with crucial catches sealing the deal. Oman’s Jatinder Singh, in his first match as captain, admitted his batters failed to hold nerves but praised the bowling unit.
Head-to-Head and Context: Pakistan’s Momentum vs Oman’s Debut Dream
This was the first meeting between Pakistan and Oman in T20Is, with Pakistan entering as heavy favorites after winning the recent UAE T20I Tri-Series against Afghanistan and UAE. Oman, qualifying via the 2024 ACC Men’s Premier Cup, aimed to punch above their weight but struggled against superior opposition.
The Asia Cup 2025, hosted across Dubai and Abu Dhabi from September 9-28, features eight teams in T20 format. Group A includes India, Pakistan, UAE, and Oman, with the top two advancing to Super Fours. Pakistan’s win gives them two points and a strong NRR (+4.650), below half of India’s dominant start against UAE.
Oman captain Jatinder Singh reflected post-match: “Restricting Pakistan to 160 was great, but our batters need to step up. We’re proud and looking forward to the next game against UAE.” Salman Agha added: “Bowling was spot on, but batting needs improvement. This sets us up well for India.”
What Next for Pakistan and Oman in Asia Cup 2025?
Pakistan’s next challenge is the blockbuster India vs Pakistan on September 14 in Dubai – a match that could define their tournament. A win here would build unshakeable confidence. Oman faces UAE on September 15, where they must regroup to stay alive in Group A.
The Asia Cup 2025 continues to deliver thrills, with Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka up next on September 13. Cricket fans can catch live action on Sony Sports Network (India), PTV Sports (Pakistan), and streaming on SonyLIV or Tamasha.
This victory reaffirms Pakistan’s status as contenders, while Oman’s debut ends in lessons learned. Stay tuned for more Asia Cup updates!