Pakistan Beat Oman by 93 Runs in Asia Cup 2025
Pakistan started their Asia Cup 2025 journey in style, delivering a commanding performance to defeat Oman by 93 runs in Dubai on Friday. Led by a brilliant half-century from Mohammad Haris and a dominant bowling display, the victory set the tone for Pakistan’s campaign in the highly competitive tournament.
Haris Led Pakistan’s Recovery
Batting first after winning the toss at the Dubai International Stadium, Pakistan faced a tricky start. Early wickets fell as Oman’s debutant pacer Shah Faisal removed Saim Ayub with just the second ball of the innings.
However, Pakistan found stability through Mohammad Haris, who anchored the innings with a fluent 66 off 43 balls, decorated with seven boundaries and three sixes. His composed approach kept Pakistan afloat after a rocky start.
Together with Sahibzada Farhan (29 off 29), Haris stitched a crucial 85-run stand for the second wicket. This partnership gave Pakistan breathing space after Oman’s bowlers had threatened to make an early breakthrough.
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Oman’s Impressive Debut with the Ball
Although Oman struggled with the bat later, their bowlers initially impressed. Left-arm spinner Aamir Kaleem (3/31) and pace debutant Shah Faisal (3/34) applied pressure with disciplined bowling spells.
They picked up key wickets of Hasan Nawaz and Mohammad Nawaz, ensuring Pakistan never fully ran away with the scoring. At one stage, Pakistan looked restricted to under 150, but a late cameo from Fakhar Zaman (23 not out off 16 balls) lifted the total to 160/7.
Pakistan’s Bowlers Crushed Oman’s Batting Line-up
Chasing 161, Oman’s batting line-up faltered under Pakistan’s sharp bowling attack. Seamers and spinners combined to dismantle the debutants, bowling them out for just 67 runs in 16.4 overs.
- Faheem Ashraf (2/6) removed Oman’s openers early, setting the tone.
- Sufiyan Muqeem (2/7) and Saim Ayub (2/8) spun a web around the middle order.
- Pakistan’s fielding effort also ensured Oman never recovered from the early collapse.
Only Hammad Mirza resisted briefly, top-scoring with 27 runs off 23 balls, including a six and three boundaries. However, his knock wasn’t enough as wickets kept tumbling from the other end.
Key Performers of the Match
- Mohammad Haris (Pakistan): 66 (43), 7 fours, 3 sixes
- Sahibzada Farhan (Pakistan): 29 (29)
- Fakhar Zaman (Pakistan): 23* (16)
- Aamir Kaleem (Oman): 3/31
- Shah Faisal (Oman): 3/34
- Faheem Ashraf (Pakistan): 2/6
- Sufiyan Muqeem (Pakistan): 2/7
- Saim Ayub (Pakistan): 2/8
This balance of batting resilience and bowling firepower highlighted why Pakistan are seen as strong contenders in this edition of the Asia Cup.
What the Win Means for Pakistan
The victory was more than just a comfortable opening game result. It helped Pakistan:
- Boost net run rate with a dominant win margin.
- Regain form for Mohammad Haris, whose return to runs is crucial for middle-order stability.
- Show depth in bowling, as spinners and seamers both performed brilliantly.
Captain Salman Agha praised the team’s composure, stating that early wickets from the bowlers and Haris’s batting made the difference.
Oman’s First Taste of Asia Cup Action
For Oman, this match was a historic moment — their first-ever Asia Cup T20I appearance. Despite the heavy defeat, their bowlers earned respect for troubling Pakistan’s batting line-up.
Cricket experts noted that the experience of playing against a top side like Pakistan would help Oman improve in future fixtures. Their spirited performance in patches showed that with more exposure, Oman could emerge as a competitive side in Asia’s cricketing landscape.
Pakistan’s Upcoming Clash with India
The focus now shifts to Pakistan’s next match, a blockbuster encounter against arch-rivals India on Sunday in Dubai. This highly anticipated fixture is expected to draw massive global viewership and will be crucial for both teams’ qualification hopes in Group A.
Historically, Pakistan vs India games in the Asia Cup have been intense and closely fought, with memorable moments etched in cricket history. Fans will hope that form players like Haris and Pakistan’s bowlers carry momentum into the marquee clash.
The Bigger Asia Cup 2025 Picture
The Asia Cup 2025 features six teams divided into two groups. Pakistan and India are placed in Group A, alongside Oman. Meanwhile, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan form Group B.
The top two from each group will qualify for the Super Four stage, where the top teams battle for a place in the final.
This year’s edition is seen as critical preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, with teams using the tournament to test combinations and strengthen squads.
Historical Context – Pakistan in Asia Cup
Pakistan has a proud history in the Asia Cup, having won the tournament twice (2000 and 2012). The team has also reached multiple finals, including the 2022 edition where they lost to Sri Lanka.
With a blend of young talents like Saim Ayub and experienced campaigners like Fakhar Zaman, Pakistan is aiming for another Asia Cup title in 2025. This strong start against Oman gives them confidence heading into tougher fixtures.
Impact on Pakistan Cricket
The win also reflects the depth in Pakistan’s cricketing system. Players like Haris, Farhan, Muqeem, and Ayub stepped up, proving that Pakistan’s next generation is ready to handle pressure on big stages.
Such performances also fuel fan excitement back home, where cricket remains the country’s most-followed sport. Victories in global tournaments not only boost morale but also strengthen Pakistan’s standing in international cricket.
External Reference
Asian Cricket Council – Asia Cup
Conclusion
Pakistan’s thumping win over Oman was the perfect start to their Asia Cup 2025 campaign. From Haris’s return to form to the bowlers’ ruthless display, the team showcased balance and determination.
While Oman will look to learn from their debut, Pakistan’s eyes are now firmly set on their high-voltage clash against India. A win there could put them on a strong path toward the Super Four and ultimately another Asia Cup title.
With cricket fever rising, fans can expect more thrilling contests in what promises to be an unforgettable tournament.
