Dubai, UAE (Asia Cup 2025): Pakistan got their Asia Cup 2025 campaign off to a flying start as they demolished debutants Oman by 93 runs at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The match saw a dominant all-round performance from the Men in Green, led by Mohammad Haris’s blistering 66-run knock and a clinical bowling display that dismantled Oman’s batting order.
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| Pakistan Crush Oman by 93 Runs |
Pakistan’s Innings: Haris Headlines a Steady Start
Winning the toss, captain Salman Agha opted to bat first on a dry surface that offered some grip for spinners later in the evening. Pakistan started cautiously before Mohammad Haris shifted gears with a commanding innings of 66 off 43 balls, laced with seven boundaries and three sixes.
Haris’s aggressive stroke play in the middle overs was pivotal as Pakistan accelerated past the 100-run mark. He was supported by Sahibzada Farhan (29), who played a crucial anchoring role, while Fakhar Zaman remained unbeaten on 23 off 16 balls, adding valuable runs in the closing stages.
For Oman, left-arm spinner Aamir Kaleem (3/31) and medium pacer Shah Faisal (3/34) stood out, bowling with discipline and taking wickets at regular intervals to ensure Pakistan did not cross the 180-run mark. Pakistan eventually settled for 160/7 in their 20 overs — a challenging total on a sluggish pitch.
Oman’s Collapse: Inexperience Shows on the Big Stage
Chasing 161 against Pakistan’s experienced bowling unit was always going to be a stern test for Oman, and their inexperience at the top level quickly became evident. The top order failed to cope with Pakistan’s pace-spin combination, crumbling under pressure.
From 25/2 in the powerplay, Oman never recovered, losing wickets in clusters. The spinners tightened the noose with Sufyan Muqeem (2/7) and Saim Ayub (2/8) exploiting the conditions perfectly. Faheem Ashraf (2/6) added to the misery with sharp seam bowling.
Oman were eventually bundled out for 67 in just 16.4 overs, falling short by a massive 93 runs. The margin highlighted the gulf in class between the two sides, though Oman’s bowlers did earn praise for their earlier efforts in restricting Pakistan’s batting.
Tactical Takeaways
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Haris’s Intent in the Middle Overs – Pakistan’s batting tempo has often been questioned, but Haris’s fearless knock provided exactly the kind of momentum the team needs ahead of bigger clashes.
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Balanced Bowling Attack – Pakistan’s ability to share wickets among pacers and spinners will be vital in UAE conditions, and this match proved their versatility.
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Oman’s Discipline with the Ball – Despite the heavy loss, Oman can take encouragement from their bowling, particularly Kaleem and Faisal, who troubled Pakistan’s middle order. Their batting, however, requires significant improvement.
Expert Analysis
This match was more than just an easy win for Pakistan; it was a statement of intent. With tougher matches against heavyweights like India and Afghanistan ahead, Pakistan needed a morale-boosting start. Haris’s explosive batting will give them confidence in their middle order, while Nawaz, Muqeem, and Faheem’s disciplined spells underline the team’s bowling depth.
For Oman, the occasion itself was historic — playing against one of Asia’s giants on such a stage. While the result was one-sided, the experience will be invaluable as they continue to develop as a competitive side in Asian cricket.
Player of the Match
Mohammad Haris (Pakistan) – for his game-defining 66 off 43 balls, providing Pakistan the foundation for a big win.
Final Verdict
Pakistan began their Asia Cup 2025 journey in style, thrashing Oman by 93 runs. With batters firing and bowlers hunting in packs, the Men in Green look well prepared for sterner tests in the tournament ahead.
FAQs
Q1. Who won the Pakistan vs Oman Asia Cup 2025 match?
Pakistan won the match by 93 runs, dominating with both bat and ball.
Q2. Who was the Player of the Match in Pakistan vs Oman?
Mohammad Haris was named Player of the Match for his quickfire 66 runs off 43 balls.
Q3. What was Pakistan’s total score against Oman?
Pakistan scored 160/7 in 20 overs, with Mohammad Haris top scoring.
Q4. How many runs did Oman score in their chase?
Oman were bowled out for just 67 runs in 16.4 overs, falling 93 runs short.
Q5. Which bowlers performed best in the match?
For Pakistan: Faheem Ashraf, Sufyan Muqeem, and Saim Ayub took 2 wickets each.For Oman: Aamir Kaleem (3/31) and Shah Faisal (3/34) were the standout bowlers.
Q6. Where was the Pakistan vs Oman Asia Cup 2025 match played?
The match was played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, UAE.
