The 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has been a tournament of remarkable achievements and memorable moments, but one of the most heartwarming stories comes from the Oman cricket team. Oman made headlines by fielding two seasoned players, both aged 40 or above, in a match. This rare feat showcases the enduring spirit and passion for the game among veteran cricketers.

Naseem Khushi (Wicketkeeper, age: 41 years and 264 days)

Naseem Khushi, the team’s stalwart wicketkeeper, has been an invaluable asset for Oman. At 41 years and 264 days old, Naseem’s expertise and experience shine through both his batting and wicketkeeping skills. Known for his right-handed batting prowess, Naseem has consistently provided stability to Oman’s batting line-up. His ability to perform under pressure and guide the younger players with his wisdom has been instrumental throughout the tournament.

Mohammad Nadeem (All-rounder, age: 41 years and 240 days)

Joining Naseem in this veteran league is Mohammad Nadeem, an all-rounder whose contributions with both bat and ball have been crucial for Oman. At 41 years and 240 days, Nadeem’s right-handed batting and medium-fast bowling bring a wealth of experience to the team. His versatility as an all-rounder allows Oman to have a balanced and flexible lineup, capable of adapting to various match situations.

Moreover, at 43, Ugandan off-spinner Frank Nsubuga is set to become the oldest player in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Having played his first international tournament at 16, Nsubuga’s career spans nearly three decades. Uganda’s qualification marks a historic first, achieved under the guidance of coaches Lawrence Mahatlane and Craig Williams, culminating in a memorable victory over Zimbabwe.

Defying age and inspiring generations

In the Oman squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, experience is a significant asset, with six players aged 35 or older leading the charge. Beyond the notable presence of Naseem Khushi (41 years, 297 days) and Mohammad Nadeem (41 years, 273 days), the team also includes Mehran Khan, a 37-year-old batter whose seasoned skills add depth to the batting lineup.

Kaleemullah, at 33 years old, contributes his expertise as a bowler, while Bilal Khan, another 37-year-old bowler, brings a wealth of experience to the bowling attack. Additionally, Shakeel Ahmed, a 36-year-old bowler, enhances the team’s strategic options with his seasoned performances.

Oman vs Namibia: Records broken and made

In an eventful ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Oman has witnessed numerous historic moments and remarkable records.

Ruben Trumpelmann made headlines by taking three wickets inside the powerplay for the second time in a men’s T20 World Cup game, joining the elite company of Dirk Nannes, Angelo Mathews, and Trent Boult, who have achieved this feat multiple times.

Trumpelmann further distinguished himself as the first player to take a wicket on the first ball of a World Cup innings twice, first against Scotland in 2021 and again versus Oman in 2024.

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Oman’s matches have been equally dramatic, with the team becoming the first in men’s T20 history to have more than half their players dismissed LBW in an innings.

In a match, Prajapati (0), Aqib Ilyas (0), Maqsood (22), Nadeem (7), Mehran (7), and Kaleemullah (2) were all out leg-before wicket.

Oman’s T20 World Cup journey has been marked by nail-biting finishes, including a Super Over against Nepal in their last qualifier match and another Super Over against Namibia in their first World Cup match, but Namibia beat Oman by 11 runs.