Oman has kick-off their Cricket World Cup Qualifier campaign with a first-ever triumph over a Test-playing nation. Zeeshan Maqsood’s side registered a remarkable five-wicket win against Ireland at the Bulawayo Athletic Club.
This was Oman’s first battle against a team with Test status, and they have been successful in etching their name in cricketing history.
In pursuit of a target of 282 runs, Oman displayed exceptional batting prowess and reached their goal in 48.1 overs with five wickets in hand. Opening batsman Kashyap Prajapati emerged as the standout performer in the chase, contributing a splendid 72 runs off just 74 deliveries.
Aqib Ilyas provided a brisk knock of 52 runs from 49 balls, while skipper Zeeshan Maqsood showcased his leadership skills with composed innings of 57 runs.
Remaining calm under pressure, Mohammad Nadeem played a crucial role by remaining unbeaten until the end, adding 46* runs. It was Shoaib Khan who sealed the memorable victory with a boundary, finishing unbeaten on 19 runs.
Earlier, Ireland posted 281/7 after being invited to bat first. Despite the openers adding 51 runs for the first wicket, Ireland were three down for 69 in no time. Harry Tector scored an anchoring 52 runs, while George Dockrell made an unbeaten 89-ball 91 with seven fours and two sixes. The lower order also contributed crucial runs to bolster Ireland’s total.
For Oman, pacers Bilal Khan and Fayazz Butt bagged two wickets each. The other three bowlers picked up one each.
