Bridgetown, Barbados : In a fearless exhibition of cricket, brimming with character and unwavering resolve, Oman took on the formidable Australia in the Group B clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on Wednesday night (Thursday morning, Oman time). Despite their valiant efforts, Oman fell short by 39 runs against the former world T20 champions, registering their second consecutive loss in the tournament. Having restricted Australia to 164/5, Oman finished at 125/9 Nevertheless, Duleep Mendis’ players trooped out of the ground with heads held high, their unwavering spirit shining brightly on the global platform.
Having restricted Australia to 164/5, courtesy a spirited bowling display, Oman were never in hunt after the fall of early wickets against a world-class attack. But Omani players played like brave hearts at this iconic venue to impress one and all. Ahead of the match, Oman skipper Aqib Ilyas had boldly claimed that they wouldn’t be overawed by the reputation of their rivals, and he walked the talk as Oman, after winning the toss, send the Aussies to bat.
Ilyas led from the front as he took a stunner to get rid of Glenn Maxwell off Mehran Khan, a catch that has been undoubtedly the best so far in the ongoing tournament. Once again, Oman bowlers stood up to the challenge and gave an early scare to the heavyweights with early wickets and a squeeze on the run-rate. Aussie openers, Travis Head and David Warner began well as they .
