Oman announce squad for T20 World Cup

Oman announced their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024, with Ilyas unveiled as the team’s skipper. Batting all-rounder Aqib Ilyas has been named as Oman’s captain for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, beginning on 1 June.

Ilyas Takes the Helm

Ilyas, a seasoned cricketer with prior leadership experience, was appointed as the captain of Oman’s T20 World Cup squad. This decision underscores the team management’s confidence in his leadership abilities, especially considering his previous stints as captain.

“I am truly honoured to be entrusted with the captaincy. It’s a huge responsibility, and I aim to lead the team to many victories. We are preparing rigorously for the World Cup, and the recent ACC Premier Cup has provided us with invaluable preparation,” Aqib said.

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Preparation for the World Cup

Aqib, Oman’s newly appointed skipper, expressed his gratitude for being entrusted with the captaincy role. He emphasized the team’s rigorous preparation for the World Cup, highlighting the recent ACC Premier Cup as invaluable preparation for the upcoming tournament.

Squad Composition

The majority of Oman’s squad comprises players who featured in the final of the recent ACC Premier Cup. Notable inclusions from the 2021 T20 World Cup squad reaffirm the team’s reliance on experienced campaigners for the 2024 campaign.

Oman’s bowling lineup boasts a formidable arsenal, with left-arm yorker specialist Bilal Khan leading the charge. Supported by the likes of Kaleemullah, Fayyaz Butt, and Shakeel Ahmad, Oman aims to maintain a strong bowling presence throughout the tournament.

In the batting department, the combination of Kashyap Prajapati and Naseem Khushi is expected to provide stability at No.3 and No.4 respectively. Wicket-keeper batter Pratik Athavale and Ayaan Khan are anticipated to make vital contributions lower down the order.

Exclusions from the Squad

While the squad features several familiar faces, notable exclusions include opener Jatinder Singh and Samay Shrivastav. The team management’s decision reflects a strategic approach to squad selection based on current form and team dynamics.

Group Stage Opponents

Positioned in Group B alongside formidable opponents like Australia, England, Namibia, and Scotland, Oman faces a challenging road ahead. Their campaign kicks off on 2 June against the Eagles in Barbados, setting the stage for an exhilarating tournament.

Oman squad: Aqib Ilyas (c), Zeeshan Maqsood, Kashyap Prajapati, Pratik Athavale (wk), Ayaan Khan, Shoaib Khan, Mohammad Nadeem, Naseem Khushi (wk), Mehran Khan, Bilal Khan, Rafiullah, Kaleemullah, Fayyaz Butt, Shakeel Ahmad. Reserves: Jatinder Singh, Samay Shrivastava, Sufyan Mehmood, Jay Odedra