• India clinched a comfortable 21-run victory over Oman, despite Aamir Kaleem’s fighting display.

  • Sanju Samson was adjudged Player of the Match for his gritty half-century.

Fans hail Aamir Kaleem’s zeal and Oman’s fight despite despite loss to India in Asia Cup 2025
Fans hail Aamir Kaleem's zeal and Oman's fight against dominant India side in Asia Cup 2025 (Image source: X)

India vs Oman, 12th Match Group A, Asia Cup 2025 at Abu Dhabi on September 19, 2025, delivered an exciting encounter where India posted 188/8 before winning by 21 runs. The match showcased India’s batting strength and Oman’s spirited fight led by veteran all-rounder Aamir Kaleem who earned widespread admiration for his fearless display against the dominant Indian side.

Balanced batting powers India to a formidable total

Winning the toss at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, India opted to bat first on a slightly slow pitch. Opener Abhishek Sharma provided the early fireworks with an explosive 38 off just 15 balls featuring five boundaries and two sixes during the powerplay. Despite Shubman Gill’s early dismissal for 5, Sanju Samson anchored the innings with a composed 56 off 45 deliveries. Samson’s knock included three boundaries and three sixes making him the sixth Indian batter to score 50-plus runs in Asia Cup T20Is.

The middle order contributed effectively with Axar Patel‘s quickfire 26 off 13 balls and Tilak Varma‘s aggressive 29 off 18 deliveries maintaining the momentum. Captain Suryakumar Yadav made the unusual decision to bat last but never got the opportunity as India finished at 188/8. Harshit Rana remained unbeaten on 13 including a six in the final over while Oman’s bowlers led by Shah Faisal (2/23) and Jiten Ramanandi kept India under 200.

Aamir Kaleem’s heroic knock ignites Oman’s fighting spirit

In response, Oman displayed remarkable courage with 43-year-old Kaleem leading the charge. His magnificent 64 off 46 balls featuring seven boundaries and two sixes was a masterclass in composure and aggression. Kaleem became the oldest batter to score 50-plus against a full-member nation in T20Is surpassing Mohammad Nabi‘s record. His partnership with opening partner Jatinder Singh (32) yielded 56 runs setting a solid foundation.

Hammad Mirza provided excellent support with a blazing 51 off 33 balls including two consecutive sixes off Kuldeep Yadav that kept the chase alive. The duo’s 93-run partnership for the second wicket frustrated India’s bowling attack until Harshit Rana dismissed Kaleem with Hardik Pandya taking a brilliant boundary catch. Despite losing quick wickets thereafter, Oman finished respectably at 167/4 falling 21 runs short.

Kaleem’s all-round performance including two wickets with the ball earlier demonstrated his value to the team. His zeal and fighting spirit against India’s quality bowling attack earned praise from fans worldwide showcasing that associate nations can compete fiercely against top-tier teams. This match reinforced India’s Asia Cup credentials while highlighting the passion and determination that makes cricket truly global.

Also WATCH: Kuldeep Yadav cleans up Jatinder Singh with a beauty in IND vs OMN Asia Cup 2025 clash

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Also WATCH: Sanju Samson hits Shah Faisal for a humungous six in IND vs OMN clash at Asia Cup 2025

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About the Author:
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.