With this result, the Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian side, who had already registered wins over Pakistan and the UAE, mathematically secured their place in the next round. India’s strong net run rate, coupled with UAE’s win, ensured they would progress regardless of the result in their final group-stage game
India, currently unbeaten and sitting atop Group A, will next face Oman (Photo: AFP)
India on Monday became the first team to qualify for the Super 4 stage of the ongoing Asia Cup 2025, thanks to a dominant all-round display by the United Arab Emirates, who opened their campaign account with a convincing 42-run win over Oman in Match 7 of the tournament.
With this result, the Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian side, who had already registered wins over Pakistan and the UAE, mathematically secured their place in the next round. India’s strong net run rate, coupled with UAE’s win, ensured they would progress regardless of the result in their final group-stage game.
On Monday, UAE bounced back in style after previous setbacks, delivering a clinical performance with both bat and ball. Opener Muhammad Waseem anchored the innings with a composed 69 off 54 deliveries, holding the innings together after a cautious start. Waseem was eventually dismissed in the final over but not before setting a solid platform.
His opening partner, Alishan Sharafu, provided the early momentum. After a slow start, Sharafu shifted gears and blazed his way to a 38-ball 51, peppering the boundary with clean strokes and forging a crucial opening stand with Waseem. Their partnership helped the UAE post a competitive total of 172 for 5 in their 20 overs.
In response, Oman’s chase never gained traction. They were rocked early by Junaid Siddique, who struck two early blows, dismissing both openers, Aamir Kaleem (2) and skipper Jatinder Singh (20), within the first four overs. With only 23 runs on the board, Oman were immediately under pressure.
The collapse continued as left-arm spinner Haider Ali tightened the noose, returning impressive figures of 2 for 22. His spell included key middle-order wickets that left Oman reeling at 50 for 5 by the seventh over. The rest of the innings was a mere formality, with the team eventually bowled out for 130 in 18.4 overs.
UAE’s all-round effort not only revived their own Super 4 hopes but also guaranteed India’s advancement from the group, regardless of their upcoming clash against Oman.
India, currently unbeaten and sitting atop Group A, will next face Oman in what will now be a dead rubber for the Men in Blue but a must-win fixture for Oman, whose slim qualification hopes now rest on a massive win and favorable net run rate dynamics.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
