MUSCAT: A new era in Omani cricket begins on Friday as the national team steps onto the field in Dubai to compete against Pakistan in their first-ever Asia Cup match. For a country where many players balance cricket with full-time employment, this journey is remarkable.
Leading the team is coach Duleep Mendis, the legendary Sri Lankan cricketer who has been instrumental in Oman’s development since 2012. Under his guidance, the team progressed from their dreamlike T20 World Cup debut in 2016 to qualifying for the 2021 and 2024 tournaments, establishing themselves among the rising cricketing nations. Now, with the eyes of Asia upon them, Mendis takes Oman to their most significant platform yet — the Asia Cup.
“We are the underdogs, and this is our first appearance at the Asia Cup. However, the players are thoroughly prepared to compete. The team aims to make a mark, not merely to participate,” stated Mendis, who previously managed Sri Lanka’s victorious 1996 World Cup team.
Jatinder Singh will spearhead Oman’s efforts. Their training has been intense — including domestic T20 leagues, fitness camps, and final adjustments in July with India’s Sulakshan Kulkarni joining as the deputy head coach. Nevertheless, the team last played a T20I series in February, where they faced a defeat against the USA.
Mendis emphasized the importance of this moment for his players. “Oman cricketers have previously made their performances count, and they recognize this as a significant chance to face India and Pakistan at the Asia Cup,” he remarked. “The players are keen to take advantage of this opportunity and demonstrate their capabilities. We aspire to deliver a commendable performance.
In contrast, Pakistan enters the match as the favorites. They are in good form after winning the recent tri-series title against Afghanistan and the UAE, and under the leadership of captain Salman Agha, they are already focused on the upcoming clash with India scheduled for September 14.
However, Pakistan is all too familiar with the pain of an upset—just last year, they faced a surprising defeat against the USA in the T20 World Cup.
For Oman, this match presents no pressure, only a chance to seize the moment. As Jatinder expressed: "There is no pressure on us. We have nothing to lose and will put forth our best effort in showcasing fearless cricket on the grand stage."
From office environments to cricket fields, Oman’s players exemplify the determination of dreamers striving for glory against formidable opponents. On Friday in Dubai, they will stand united with Pakistan, eager to demonstrate that underdogs can indeed make their presence felt.
