Pakistan opened their Asia Cup 2025 campaign in emphatic fashion, dismantling debutants Oman by 93 runs at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Mohammad Haris’ fluent half-century set the stage with the bat, before Pakistan’s spinners ran riot to roll over the opposition for just 67.
Put in to bat first, Pakistan’s innings hinged on Haris’ controlled aggression. Walking in at number three, the wicketkeeper-batter exuded confidence, steering the innings with clean strokeplay. His 43-ball 66, decorated with seven boundaries and three sixes, formed the backbone of the total. The highlight was his 85-run stand with Sahibzada Farhan, who anchored his end with a patient 29 from 29 deliveries.
Though wickets tumbled late — Oman’s Aamir Kaleem and Shah Faisal sharing three each — Pakistan still closed on 160 for seven. Fakhar Zaman’s unbeaten 23 off 16 provided a brisk finishing touch, ensuring the target was a stiff one under lights.
Oman’s reply, however, never threatened. Their chase quickly unravelled under Pakistan’s spin stranglehold. The quartet of Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Saim Ayub, and Sufyan Moqim were relentless in both control and penetration, combining for six wickets. Saim’s 2 for 8 and Moqim’s 2 for 7 stood out, while Faheem Ashraf chipped in with two for 6 as Oman collapsed to 67 all out in 16.4 overs.
Only Hammad Mirza, with a spirited 27 off 23 balls, showed resistance, striking three boundaries and a six. Cameos from Aamir Kaleem and Shakeel Ahmed briefly flickered, but there was little else against Pakistan’s all-round attack.
For his commanding half-century and the partnership that defined the contest, Mohammad Haris was named Player of the Match. Pakistan’s 93-run victory not only gave them a flying start in the tournament but also underlined their balance — firepower up front, spin in the middle, and discipline with the ball.
The win sets the stage for a high-voltage clash, as Pakistan face arch-rivals India at the same venue on Sunday night.
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