MUSCAT : Oman made a winning start to their home campaign in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2, defeating Canada by 41 runs in the opening match at Al Amerat Cricket Ground on Friday. After being bowled out for 263 in 49.1 overs, Oman produced a determined bowling performance to dismiss Canada for 222 in 48 overs, securing a crucial victory as the race for qualification for the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup continues to intensify.

The result rewarded Oman’s preparations over recent days, with the team building momentum through a series of practice sessions and competitive matches against Indian sides ahead of the League 2 fixtures. Oman’s batting effort was led by Hassnain Ul Wahab, who struck an impressive 93 off 77 balls, including five fours and five sixes. His innings provided the hosts with a strong platform, while Jatinder Singh contributed 34 from 30 deliveries and Mujibur Ali added 39 from 73 balls. Zikria Islam also made a useful late contribution, scoring 24 off 18 deliveries, as Oman sought to post a competitive total. Captain Vinayak Shukla scored 20, while Shakeel Ahmed added 18. Canada’s bowlers kept the pressure on, with Harsh Thaker claiming four wickets and Ajayveer Hundal taking three. However, Oman’s total proved sufficient as its bowlers maintained their discipline with Hassnain Ali Shah claiming four wickets and Shakeel Ahmad claiming 3 wickets to secure the victory.

Preparation Pays Off

Oman head coach Sulakshan Kulkarni said the team’s recent preparation had played an important role in helping the players approach the opening match with confidence and readiness. “The preparation has gone very well, and I believe the recent matches against Kerala and Mumbai helped us significantly ahead of the League 2 series,” Kulkarni said.

“We also had good training sessions over the last few days. Playing at home is a great advantage for us, as it helps the players settle into the team environment and prepare under familiar conditions.”

Kulkarni also highlighted the balance within the squad, pointing to the combination of spin and pace bowling, batting depth and the presence of several all-rounders.

“We have a well-balanced side, with a good mix of spinners, fast bowlers and batting options. We also have several all-rounders, which gives us an important advantage and provides flexibility in different match situations,” he added.

Oman’s preparations included a triangular series involving Mumbai and Kerala, in which the team recorded two victories from four matches. The games offered valuable competitive exposure before the start of the League 2 home leg.

Shukla Praises Team’s Progress

Oman captain Vinayak Shukla also expressed satisfaction with the squad’s preparations, saying the players had shown encouraging form in the build-up to the competition. “I think our preparation has been very good. The matches against the Indian teams provided us with valuable practice, and the boys have been shaping up well over the last few games,” Shukla said.

“Everyone is putting in their best effort as we approach the League 2 matches. That preparation has helped the team build confidence and get ready for the challenge ahead.”

The captain’s comments reflected Oman’s focus on carrying their recent form into the home series, where every result could prove important in the standings.

Oman’s League 2 campaign will continue with a second meeting against Canada on October 15, while their matches against Nepal are scheduled for October 13 and 19. Canada and Nepal will meet on October 11 and 17.