The match between the United States and Oman in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 was held on February 12, 2025, at Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman. Oman’s Shakeel Ahmed turned in a stellar performance, leading his team to a convincing seven-wicket win.
The USA, after winning the toss, opted to bat first. However, their innings began poorly, with early wickets falling rapidly. Shakeel Ahmed was particularly effective for Oman, claiming the wickets of Smit Patel (7), Andries Gous (13), and Monank Patel (0) within the first five overs, leaving the USA reeling at 36/3.
Saiteja Mukkamalla’s innings was vital, as he anchored the USA’s batting with a determined 80 runs off 106 balls. He hit nine fours and provided essential stability to the innings. Nonetheless, wickets kept falling at the other end; Milind Kumar (12 runs off 36 balls) and Aaron Jones (15 runs off 44 balls) struggled to push the score. Contributions from Harmeet Singh (6), Sanjay Krishnamurthi (1), and Shadley van Schalkwyk (2) were minimal as Oman’s bowlers maintained consistent pressure.
Shakeel Ahmed concluded with outstanding figures of 4 wickets for 26 runs in 9.1 overs, earning the Player of the Match title. Jay Odedra also played a crucial role with 3 wickets for 23 runs, while Samay Shrivastav and Wasim Ali contributed with two and one wickets, respectively. The USA was bowled out for 151 in 42.1 overs, presenting Oman with a target of 152.
Oman’s batting response was steady. Although they started slowly, opener Aamir Kaleem scored 28 runs off 78 balls before falling lbw to Harmeet Singh. Captain Jatinder Singh took control, scoring a composed 82 runs off 127 balls, including eight boundaries and two sixes, which ensured a successful chase for Oman.
Hammad Mirza (12 runs off 35 balls) and Wasim Ali (18 runs off 20 balls) offered brief assistance before they were dismissed by Harmeet Singh and Milind Kumar, respectively. However, by the time Wasim Ali was out, Oman was close to victory. Vinayak Shukla remained not out on 8, and Oman reached 152/3 in 45.5 overs.
The USA bowlers struggled to make impactful breakthroughs, with Harmeet Singh emerging as the most effective, taking 2 wickets for 20 runs in his 10-over spell. Milind Kumar captured one wicket for 33 runs in 10 overs. Saurabh Netravalkar and Nosthush Kenjige bowled economically but failed to secure any wickets.
Image Source: Ab Sports @ YouTube
