Despite a challenging start to the ongoing T20 World Cup, Oman captain Jatinder Singh remains optimistic, seeing a glimmer of hope for his team. Oman faces a formidable opponent in their final group-stage match—Australia—but Singh believes this presents an opportunity to pull off a shock result against a side already eliminated from the tournament.
Oman’s campaign so far has been far from ideal. Heavy defeats against Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, and Ireland have placed the team under considerable pressure. Yet, Singh remains determined that the final match can serve as a platform for redemption.
Speaking at a press conference, he said, “This is a major opportunity for us. T20 cricket is all about momentum. When you capitalise on the right moments, any team can be beaten. Australia is not in their best shape right now, and this is the perfect time to challenge them.”
Singh emphasised the positive mindset of his squad, noting that the players are eager to prove themselves on the global stage.
However, his focus extends beyond a single match. Oman’s captain is already contemplating the team’s longer-term growth on the international stage. According to him, exposure to competitive cricket is essential for development. In 2025, Oman played only 15 T20 internationals and 8 One-Day Internationals—a modest number compared with cricketing powerhouses.
| Year | Format | Matches Played |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | T20I | 15 |
| 2025 | ODI | 8 |
Singh explained, “If franchise cricket starts in our country or if our players get opportunities to play abroad, they will gain valuable experience. That experience will translate into significant improvements for the national team.”
He also lamented that, at times, invitations extended to other teams to play in Oman have not always received the desired response. He believes that a strong domestic franchise system could therefore be a key driver for Oman’s cricketing advancement.
As Oman prepares to face Australia, Singh’s message is clear: the final group match is more than just a fixture—it is a chance to make a statement, foster growth, and lay foundations for a more competitive future on the international stage.