The Asia Cup 2025 is a landmark moment for Oman as they make their first-ever appearance in Asia’s premier cricket competition. Their qualification came through the 2024 ACC Men’s Premier Cup, where they finished in the top three, joining Hong Kong and UAE as associate representatives.
Although Oman has no prior Asia Cup experience, they have featured in the T20 World Cup events which eventually gives them a plus point for creating an upset.
Squad
Jatinder Singh (capt), Hammad Mirza, Vinayak Shukla, Sufyan Yousuf, Ashish Odedera, Aamir Kaleem, Mohammad Nadeem, Sufyan Mehmood, Aryan Bisht, Karan Sonavale, Zikriya Islam, Hassnain Ali Shah, Faisal Shah, Mohammad Imran, Nadeem Khan, Shakeel Ahmad, Samay Shrivastava.
Jatinder Singh, an attacking opener who now serves as a captain. Setting the tone for Oman’s innings will be greatly aided by his aggressive style at the top.
Experienced all-rounders Mohammad Nadeem and Aamir Kaleem, who have both played a key role for Oman, back him up. Oman has also added the young and up-and-coming stars as the squad includes four uncapped players: Sufyan Yousuf, Zikriya Islam, Faisal Shah, and Nadeem Khan.
On the bowling front, seasoned campaigners like Shakeel Ahmad and Sufyan Mehmood are expected to spearhead the attack, supported by young bowlers eager to make their mark.
Strengths
- With Jatinder Singh captaining and senior players like Kaleem and Nadeem around him, the side has stability in both batting and bowling. Their bowling attack is another highlight: Shakeel Ahmad’s consistency, combined with Sufyan Mehmood’s aggression, gives them a balanced pace unit.
- Spin is also a strong asset, particularly on UAE pitches, with Aamir Kaleem and Mohammad Nadeem capable of controlling the middle overs.
Weaknesses
- The challenges for Oman are equally clear. Facing India, Pakistan, and UAE in Group A is a massive step up from associate cricket. Their lack of exposure against elite teams may leave them vulnerable under pressure.
- While Jatinder Singh and a few others can anchor innings, the lower middle order lacks consistent power-hitters, making it difficult to keep up in high-scoring games.
Players to Watch Out For
Jatinder Singh
- Oman’s leading T20I run-scorer with 1,399 runs at an average of 24.54.
- Known for quick starts and anchoring innings in pressure situations.
Aamir Kaleem
- 41 wickets in 44 T20Is at an economy of 7.50, average 19.9.
- Best figures: 5/15 vs Nepal (2019).
- 580 runs at a strike rate of 115.5, making him a useful lower-order hitter.
Mohammad Nadeem
- Scored 641 T20I runs at an average of 20.03, strike rate 110.5.
- Taken 34 T20I wickets with an economy of 7.69.
- Provides balance as a steady batsman and partnership breaker.
Shakeel Ahmad
- T20 career: 27 wickets in 32 matches at an average of 26.7, economy under 7.
- Expected to be Oman’s go-to bowler in crunch situations.
Sufyan Yousuf
- Known for aggressive batting in T10 leagues: 123 runs at a strike rate of 112.8.
- Yet to make his T20I debut for Oman.
Fixtures – Group A
- September 12: Oman vs Pakistan – UAE
- September 15: Oman vs UAE – UAE
- September 19: Oman vs India – UAE
Oman may enter Asia Cup 2025 as underdogs, but they carry the potential to surprise. Their group-stage clashes against cricketing giants India and Pakistan will test them, while the match against UAE is a realistic chance to push for victory. Under Jatinder Singh’s leadership, Oman is not just here to participate, they’re here to make their mark.
As head coach Duleep Mendis said:
“Our build-up has been strong, with the ongoing National T20 tournament providing competitive exposure, and our training sessions have been intense and focused. It’s not just about skills – in high-pressure games against elite teams, mental strength is equally crucial. We are hopeful of making an impact in this Asia Cup and showcasing Oman as a growing cricketing nation.”
“Oman enters the Asia Cup with a blend of experience and youth, determined to leave a mark against Asia’s cricketing powerhouses. The tournament will not only test their skills but also their mental toughness on one of the most watched platforms in the sport”
