Pakistan Strike Early Against Oman in Asia Cup 2025 Clash
The Asia Cup 2025 has kicked off in Dubai with Pakistan beginning their campaign against Oman, and the match has already provided drama from the very first overs. Pakistan, who had set a total of 160 for seven in their innings, went into the field knowing they had the bowling strength to defend it. The chase for Oman began under the lights, with Jatinder Singh and Aamir Kaleem walking out to open. But it wasn’t long before Pakistan made their mark.
Shaheen Afridi started the proceedings with pace and swing, immediately troubling the batters. A few tight deliveries built pressure, and soon Saim Ayub, brought on from the other end, struck gold. The part-timer delivered a sharp turner that went right through Oman’s skipper Jatinder Singh, disturbing the stumps and giving Pakistan the breakthrough they wanted. That early wicket left Oman reeling at just 2 for 1, and the chase for 161 already looked steep. By the third over, the scoreboard read 24 for 1, with Oman struggling to rebuild.
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Pakistan’s innings earlier in the evening had been a mix of resilience and missed opportunities. The start wasn’t ideal, as Saim Ayub fell cheaply, but a smart move to send Mohammad Haris up the order paid dividends. His fluent 66 from 43 balls provided the backbone of Pakistan’s total. Alongside him, Sahibzada Farhan tried to anchor the innings, though his strike rate remained a concern. Once Haris departed, Pakistan lost a few quick wickets, and Oman seized the momentum with disciplined bowling.
Shah Faisal’s clever variations earned him three wickets, while Aamir Kaleem picked up another three, swinging the game back in Oman’s favor just when Pakistan seemed to be cruising towards a score close to 180 or more. Mohammad Nawaz played a brief cameo, adding some valuable late runs, but Pakistan’s finish lacked the fireworks they had hoped for. In the end, 160 was posted on the board—competitive, yet not beyond reach on this Dubai pitch.
What makes this contest even more interesting is the context surrounding Pakistan’s campaign. Coach Mike Hesson, who has recently taken charge, had stressed the importance of focus ahead of the tournament, especially with the high-profile clash against India looming on Sunday. His message was clear—treat every match with the same seriousness, no matter the opposition. Pakistan entered this game full of confidence after winning a tri-series in the UAE, thanks largely to their formidable spin attack led by Mohammad Nawaz, whom Hesson even called the best spinner in the world right now.
For Oman, this was always going to be a test against one of Asia’s cricketing heavyweights. Yet, their spirited bowling performance earlier showed they are not here just to make up the numbers. The real challenge now lies in their batting, as they chase down what is a tricky target against one of the most dangerous bowling units in the tournament.
As things stand, Pakistan have struck early and set the tone. Oman need partnerships, while Pakistan will be looking to tighten the screws further. With the stage set in Dubai, the Asia Cup has already delivered a gripping opening act.
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