UAE defeat Oman to go top of table

MUSCAT: Hosts UAE continued their perfect start in the second edition of the Gulf Cup T20 with a 24-run victory over defending champions Oman at ICC Academy Ground in Dubai on Sunday.

After setting a competitive total of 157/7, UAE’s bowlers held their nerve to restrict Oman to just 133, securing their second consecutive win and moving to the top of the points table.

Set to chase 158, Oman’s innings never gained momentum as wickets fell at regular intervals. Opening batter and skipper Jatinder Singh (26) looked to provide a solid platform but was dismissed in the 10th over, caught off the bowling of Muhammad Zuhaib. Oman's troubles began early when Dhruv Parashar caught Aamir Kaleem (23) at mid-off. After Jatinder’s exit, Oman were left at 64/2 in 9.4 overs.

As the required run rate climbed, Oman’s middle order failed to forge significant partnerships. Karan Sonavale (14) fell cheaply, while Hammad Mirza (11) was caught off Muhammad Jawadullah. With 91/4 in the 14th over, Oman struggled to stay in contention.

The pressure mounted as Oman’s batting lineup faltered. Wasim Ali (17) and Vinayak Shukla (9) were dismissed in quick succession, and Sufyan Mehmood (0) was run out on the final ball, leaving Oman at 133/8. Mohammed Nadeem showed some resilience with an unbeaten 22, but lacked support from the other end.

UAE’s bowlers were the stars of the match, with Junaid Siddique (2/24), Ali Naseer (2/23), and Muhammad Jawadullah (2/25) delivering standout performances.

Earlier, UAE posted 157/7 in their 20 overs after being put in to bat. The innings was anchored by skipper Muhammad Waseem (48) and Tanish Suri (40), who built a steady 79-run partnership. Alishan Sharafu (22) and Dhruv Parashar (17*) added quick runs later, but Oman’s bowlers, particularly Samay Shrivastav (3/29) and Sufyan Mehmood (2/35), kept UAE in check. Despite a late collapse, UAE set a competitive total.

UAE captain Muhammad Waseem was named the player of the match for his 31-ball 48, which included four boundaries and two maximums.

Brief Scores:
UAE 157/7 (Tanish Suri 40, Muhammad Waseem 48; Samay Shrivastav 3/29, Sufyan Mehmood 2/35)
Oman 133/8 (Jatinder Singh 26, Aamir Kaleem 23, Mohammed Nadeem 22*; Junaid Siddique 2/24, Ali Naseer 2/23, Muhammad Jawadullah 2/25)