If Pakistan had drawn up their dream start to the Asia Cup, it would have looked a lot like this – a first game against tournament newcomers Oman, a side still finding its feet on the big stage. For Salman Ali Agha’s men, it’s a low-risk opener, more warm-up than test, before the real pressure cooker clash against India looms on Sunday. For Oman, though, it’s the chance to turn heads by daring to punch above their weight against Pakistan.
The odds, however, are stacked heavily against the Gulf side. Oman’s build-up has been anything but ideal.
Oman’s route to Asia Cup
Earlier this year, the players were locked in a messy pay dispute after their cricket board delayed salaries in the lead-up to the 2024 T20 World Cup. Those dues may have been cleared but the fallout was clear as several senior names walked away, leaving a squad that looks very different from the one that qualified 18 months ago. Over half of Oman’s Asia Cup squad didn’t feature in that World Cup. Their most recent T20I cricket came in February against the USA and all three games ended in defeat.
Pakistan comes in full of confidence
Pakistan, in contrast, arrives in Dubai with their spirits up. They have just won a tri-series featuring Afghanistan and UAE, brushing aside both teams before crushing UAE in the final inside 106 balls. Though their performances weren’t flawless, the momentum is with them. For Agha’s men, Friday night’s game doubles up as a dress rehearsal in Dubai, fine-tuning bowling combinations before the blockbuster against India.
That bowling mix is where the intrigue lies. Pakistan experimented heavily in the tri-series, rotating quicks and alternating between one or two wristspinners. In the final, both Sufiyan Muqeem and Abrar Ahmed got a go and Dubai’s spin-friendly surfaces could tempt the management into sticking with that formula. If it clicks, India could be in for a tricky examination on Sunday.
Still, Pakistan will be wary of taking things too lightly. The scars of last year’s T20 World Cup remain fresh, when an inspired USA stunned them before India applied the knockout blow. A repeat stumble here would be unthinkable.
When and where to watch Pakistan vs Oman match in India?
The match between Pakistan and Oman will take place at Dubai International Stadium. The toss for the match will take place at 7.30 pm IST and the match will begin at 8 pm. The game will be broadcast in India on Sony Sports Network and will be live streamed on SonyLIV app and website.