Saira Imran Pakistan opened its Asia Cup Pakistan vs Oman campaign with a commanding win, securing a 93-run victory and making a strong statement for the tournament ahead.
Pakistan made a winning start to the Asia Cup 2025 by defeating Oman with a comprehensive 93-run margin in their first group-stage match. The match, played in Dubai on 12 September, saw Pakistan dominate with both bat and ball.
Pakistan Sets Solid Target in Opening Match
Batting first in Asia cup, Pakistan posted 160 runs for the loss of seven wickets in their allotted 20 overs. The innings was anchored by Muhammad Haris, who displayed impressive form after a string of low scores in previous games. Haris scored a brisk 66 runs off 43 balls, hitting boundaries at crucial moments and keeping the scoreboard moving.
Sahibzada Farhan contributed 29 runs, Fakhar Zaman added 23, while Muhammad Nawaz chipped in with 19. However, apart from these key contributors, no other Pakistani batsman managed to reach double figures. Captain Salman Ali Agha and opener Saim Ayub both departed without scoring, leaving much for the middle order to cover.
From Oman’s bowling attack, Shah Faisal and Aamir Kaleem stood out, each taking three wickets. Muhammad Nadeem also claimed a wicket, conceding 23 runs in his three overs. Despite these efforts, Pakistan’s batting depth ensured a competitive total of 160.
Oman’s Batting Lineup Collapses Under Pressure
In pursuit of 161 runs, Oman struggled from the very beginning. Their batsmen failed to withstand Pakistan’s bowling attack, and the team crumbled for just 67 runs in 13.2 overs.
Hammad Mirza top-scored with 27 runs, showing some resistance in the middle order. Aamir Kaleem contributed 13 runs, while Shakeel Ahmed managed 10. Apart from these three, no other Omani batsman could cross double digits. The collapse highlighted Oman’s inexperience on the big stage and Pakistan’s strength with the ball.
Pakistan’s Bowlers Deliver Strong Performance
Pakistan’s bowlers displayed accuracy and aggression, dismantling Oman’s batting order with ease. Saim Ayub, Sufiyan Muqeem, and Faheem Ashraf each took two wickets, applying pressure throughout the innings.
In addition, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, and Muhammad Nawaz picked up one wicket apiece. The bowling unit worked collectively, with Ayub making a notable impact by conceding just eight runs in two overs and taking two crucial wickets.
Muhammad Haris Wins Player of the Match
Muhammad Haris’s half-century not only gave Pakistan a solid start but also helped him regain confidence after struggling in previous outings. His innings earned him the Player of the Match award, with fans and cricket experts praising his shot selection and temperament.
Cricket followers on social media highlighted the importance of playing Haris at the right batting position in Pakistan vs Oman match. One fan wrote, “Haris was never a bad batsman; he just needed the right spot in the batting order.” Another added, “It doesn’t matter which team he scored against; Haris needed runs and now he has them. This will build his confidence.”
Mixed Reactions for Saim Ayub
While Haris grabbed the headlines with his batting, Saim Ayub became a subject of debate among fans. Critics pointed out his poor batting display after he got out for a duck. At the same time, supporters praised his bowling spell, where he gave away only eight runs in two overs and took two wickets.
Social media reflected this divide. Some users humorously suggested that Ayub’s bowling might overshadow his batting role. One fan commented, “Saim Ayub should remember he can bat as well as bowl.” Another wrote sarcastically, “He might lose his place in the team for being too good with the ball.”
Pakistan Gears Up for India Clash
After starting the Asia Cup with a convincing victory, Pakistan now shifts focus to their most anticipated match against India. The clash is scheduled for 14 September at the Dubai International Stadium, promising to be a high-pressure encounter between the two arch-rivals.
Cricket fans from both nations eagerly await the contest, as it often sets the tone for the rest of the tournament. Pakistan’s strong win against Oman has boosted morale, but facing India will be an entirely different challenge.
Final Thoughts
Pakistan’s opening win in Asia Cup Pakistan vs Oman match was a display of balance between batting and bowling. Haris’s return to form, combined with the bowling unit’s collective effort, gave Pakistan a flying start to the tournament. While Oman showed glimpses of talent, they lacked the depth to challenge Pakistan.
With India as their next opponent, Pakistan carries momentum and confidence into one of the most-watched fixtures of world cricket.
