Dubai, September 12, 2025 – Pakistan cruised to a commanding 93-run victory over Oman in the Asia Cup 2025 on Friday, sending a strong message ahead of their high-voltage clash with India scheduled for Sunday, September 14.
The win not only extended Pakistan’s winning streak but also highlighted the team’s bowling firepower, despite some visible weaknesses in their batting display.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan posted 160 runs for the loss of seven wickets in their allotted 20 overs. The start wasn’t ideal as Saim Ayub departed cheaply, but Mohammad Haris, promoted to his preferred No. 3 slot, counterattacked in style with a rapid half-century. His aggressive approach put Oman under pressure and allowed Sahibzada Farhan to anchor from the other end. However, once Haris was dismissed, Pakistan struggled to maintain momentum as Oman’s bowlers—led by veteran Aamir Kaleem and Shah Faisal—picked up regular wickets to restrict the total.
Chasing 161, Oman never really found their footing. Pakistan’s spin-heavy strategy proved decisive, with Sufiyan Muqeem and Abrar Ahmed applying relentless pressure. Saim Ayub also chipped in with the ball, striking early to dismantle Oman’s fragile top order. Left-arm wrist spinner Muqeem was particularly impressive, turning the ball sharply and bagging crucial wickets. Faheem Ashraf’s two scalps and a late strike from Shaheen Afridi ensured Oman folded for just 67 runs in 16.4 overs—their second-lowest T20I score.
While Oman briefly showed resistance through Hammad Mirza’s spirited 27 and Aamir Kaleem’s double-digit contribution, they lacked the depth to handle Pakistan’s variety in attack. A late flourish from Shakeel Ahmed, who struck a six before falling for 10, added some cheer, but the gulf in class was evident.
For Pakistan, the result was both reassuring and instructive. The bowling attack looked formidable, but the batting order exposed vulnerabilities that could be costly against stronger opposition like India. Head coach and captain Salman Agha will be keen to address those issues swiftly.
For Oman, despite the heavy defeat, the experience of facing Pakistan in a major tournament serves as an important learning curve. The associate nation has made strides in international cricket, but bridging the gap against top-tier teams remains a challenge.
With this emphatic win, Pakistan head into the much-anticipated clash against arch-rivals India brimming with confidence, while Oman return to the drawing board to reassess their strategy for the remainder of the Asia Cup 2025.