MUSCAT: The T20I Asia Cup enters its second week with an exciting encounter between Oman and hosts UAE at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Both teams come into the match seeking redemption after heavy opening losses and are eager to assert themselves on Asia’s premier cricket stage. The game, scheduled to start at 4:00 pm, carries not just points but also pride, as both sides aim to demonstrate their capabilities against familiar regional opponents. With momentum crucial at this stage, Oman and UAE will look to turn early setbacks into a platform for a stronger campaign.
Oman, coached by Duleep Mendis, suffered a disappointing debut as they were bowled out for 67 while chasing Pakistan’s 160, resulting in a 93-run loss. Despite the defeat, there were encouraging performances with veteran spinner Aamir Kaleem taking three wickets, debutant medium pacer Shah Faisal impressing with three scalps, and left-arm spinner Shakeel Ahmed delivering a miserly spell. Batsman Hammad Mirza’s 27 stood out as the only significant innings, offering a glimpse of resilience in an otherwise struggling batting lineup. Captain Jatinder Singh emphasized the positives, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to rebound with improved batting rhythm and continued disciplined bowling and fielding.
For the UAE, the start was equally harsh as they faced India’s dominant attack and were dismissed for just 57, losing the match in under five overs. Captain Muhammad Waseem acknowledged the gulf in class while stressing that his side’s quality extends beyond a single result. Drawing on experiences from previous encounters with Pakistan and Afghanistan, Waseem highlighted that the team has the capability to compete at the highest level. He expressed confidence in a strong performance against Oman, emphasizing familiarity between the sides and the importance of delivering a balanced result for national pride.
The match promises a competitive contest with conditions likely to influence the outcome. The Sheikh Zayed Stadium has seen average first-innings scores in the 150s during the tournament, and chasing teams have won two of the first three matches, suggesting that the toss could be decisive in this day fixture. Both teams understand the stakes: beyond points, this Gulf rivalry represents an opportunity to reinforce regional standing and demonstrate resilience on the continental stage. Oman and UAE will aim to seize the moment, showcasing skill, strategy, and determination as they strive to keep their Asia Cup hopes alive.
