By Anas Ahmed 
Shukla Sparks Oman’s Charge
Oman produced a dominant all-round display to defeat Papua New Guinea by 52 runs at the Al Amarat Cricket Ground, sealing their passage into the Super Six stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia & EAP Qualifier 2025. The result also confirmed Samoa’s advancement, while PNG were eliminated from the tournament.
After a shaky start, Vinayak Shukla lifted Oman’s innings with a counter-attacking 48 off 24 balls, hammering five fours and three sixes. His explosive knock turned a precarious 57/5 into a defendable total of 138/7 in 20 overs.
Captain Jatinder Singh (19) and Mohammad Nadeem (28 off 26) contributed valuable runs, ensuring Oman reached a total beyond par on a two-paced surface.
PNG Struggle Against Disciplined Bowling
In pursuit of 139, PNG’s innings never gained momentum. Early breakthroughs from Oman’s new-ball attack rattled the visitors, and wickets continued to tumble. Only Sese Bau (35 off 34) and Patrick Nou (19 off 20) offered resistance before the innings folded for 86 in 16.4 overs.
Oman’s bowlers shared the spoils. Shakeel Ahmed (3/15) and Jiten Ramanandi (3/22) wrecked PNG’s middle order, while Nadeem Khan (2/8) and Mohammad Nadeem (1/7) tightened the noose in the closing stages. PNG lost their last seven wickets for just 39 runs as Oman’s spinners and seamers operated in perfect tandem.
Brief Scores
Oman: 138/7 (20 ov) – Vinayak Shukla 48 (24), Mohammad Nadeem 28 (26); Kabua Morea 2/33, Alei Nao 1/15
Papua New Guinea: 86 all out (16.4 ov) – Sese Bau 35, Patrick Nou 19; Shakeel Ahmed 3/15, Jiten Ramanandi 3/22, Nadeem Khan 2/8
Result: Oman won by 52 runs
Player of the Match: Vinayak Shukla (Oman)
Oman and Samoa March On
With this win, Oman top their group and advance to the Super Six, joining Samoa, who also secured qualification. Their strong net-run-rate and balanced lineup make them favorites heading into the next phase.
For Papua New Guinea, the defeat ends their campaign prematurely — a disappointing outcome for a side once known for their fighting spirit on the T20 stage.
Oman now look forward to the Super Six stage, carrying momentum and home-ground advantage into their pursuit of a coveted T20 World Cup 2026 spot.