Oman women gear up for Bahrain T20I series

MUSCAT: Women’s cricket takes centre stage in Muscat as the Oman Women’s National Team hosts Bahrain in a three-match T20 International series beginning May 2 at the Oman Cricket Academy grounds in Al Amerat.

The series promises to be a fiercely contested battle between two emerging teams in the Gulf region, with Oman determined to make a strong statement on home soil.

All matches will begin at 8:00 am on May 2, 3, and 5, setting the stage for a spirited return of national women’s team after a gap of more than a year.

The Oman squad, captained by Priyanka Mendonca and backed by a blend of seasoned players and exciting new talent, is looking to translate months of intense preparation into on-field success.

Head coach Desmond Berhardt is confident in the team’s readiness. Ahead of the series, he said: “Following the conclusion of a successful domestic league, a pool of 35 talented players was selected based on their performance. These athletes then participated in a rigorous two-month training camp, from which the final team of 16 was chosen for the upcoming bilateral series."

He added: “The current team represents an exciting phase of transition, blending the experience of long-standing senior players (who have been part of the system for 8–10 years) with the fresh energy of several promising teenage debutants. It's a well-rounded side, boasting solid and experienced batters, a diverse bowling attack with plenty of variation, and a few capable all-rounders."

The coach said: “This group of players is incredibly enthusiastic about returning to competitive T20I cricket after over a year. They are truly looking forward to representing Oman and are determined to perform well. I also want to express our sincere gratitude to Oman Cricket for their ongoing commitment to the growth of the women's game in the country.”

Oman women’s team last played T20 internationals at the 2024 ACC Women’s Premier Cup, facing UAE, China, and Japan. In total, they have played 21 T20Is over the past five years, recording 7 wins, 13 losses, and 1 no result.

Oman squad: Priyanka Mendonca (captain), Fiza Javed (vice-captain), Hina Javed, Hira Javed, Jayadhanya Gunasekar, Sameera Khan, Cynthia Saldanha (wk), Trupti Pawde, Alifiya Syed, Saahana Jeelany, Lujaina Ali, Afida Aftab, Amanda D’Costa, Areeba Mughal, Pia Sharma, Disha Pradeep. Head coach: Desmond Berhardt, assistant coach: Sultan Ahmed.