Asia Cup 2025: Oman is about to make history. For the first time, their national cricket team has qualified for the Asia Cup, and the 2025 edition will be their big debut on the continental stage. It’s a proud moment for a side that has risen against the odds, balancing day jobs with cricket dreams, and now finally stepping onto the same field as giants like Pakistan and India.
All eyes will now be on skipper Jatinder Singh and all-rounder Sufyan Mehmood as they prepare to lead Oman’s campaign, starting with a tough opener against Pakistan on September 12.
The Journey of Oman Cricket
Speaking to PTI videos, Captain Jatinder Singh opened up about the team’s journey and struggles over the years. He shared how, for most of them, cricket wasn’t always the main focus.
“When we started, our primary job was to get a job; cricket was secondary for us,” he said.
He explained that many players balanced regular office jobs while still finding time for cricket. “Most boys worked in offices and then managed cricket on the side. But I will say now that it’s a dream come true to represent Oman in the Asia Cup. 0ur camp is really excited and looking forward to the tournament,” Jatinder Singh added.
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The captain also reflected on how difficult it was in the early days without proper facilities. “Initially, we never had turf grounds. We started on cement wickets, then moved to Astro Turfs in 2008, and only in 2011 got a proper turf ground. There were times I thought, why am I putting in so much without results? But the hunger and passion kept us going,” he said.
Players Who Never Gave Up
Many talented cricketers in Oman had to give up their dreams along the way, but players like Jatinder and Sufyan stayed committed, and their perseverance is finally paying off. Oman’s group stage fixtures will see them play Pakistan on September 12, the UAE on September 15, and India on September 19. If they make it to the Super Four, they’ll have three more matches lined up.
Key Players to Watch in Asia Cup 2025
At 36, Jatinder Singh has been Oman’s most reliable batter. He’s scored 1,704 runs in 36 ODIs, including four centuries, with a career-best of 118 not out. In T20Is, he’s added another 1,120 runs at a strike rate above 115.
Sufyan Mehmood, 34, brings all-around value to the team. In his eight ODIs, he has scored 107 runs with a top score of 72, while also picking up six wickets at an average of 24.50.
Asia Cup 2025: A Dream Stage for Oman
For Oman, the Asia Cup 2025 is not just about results but also about learning from the big stage. Facing teams like Pakistan and defending champions India will be a special experience. And if they can pull off an upset or two, it will be a truly unforgettable chapter in their cricket journey.
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