After a period of uncertainty and indecision, England has reasserted its dominance with a decisive victory over an outclassed Oman. At the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua, England bowled out Oman for a meager 47 runs in just 80 balls. They then chased down the target in a mere 19 balls, significantly boosting their net run-rate. Adil Rashid led the attack with impressive figures of 4 for 11, while Jos Buttler sealed the win with a quickfire 24 not out from eight balls.
England entered the match knowing they needed not only a win but a swift one to improve their net run-rate and keep their tournament hopes alive. Opting to bowl first, Buttler aimed to limit Oman’s runs. The decision paid off immediately.
In a ferocious powerplay, England’s pace attack dismantled Oman. Jofra Archer and Mark Wood each took two wickets, while Reece Topley’s three-over spell of left-arm seam reduced Oman to a precarious 25 for 4. Rashid then struck with his first ball, making it 25 for 5.
Topley, returning from a series of unfortunate injuries, set the tone with an exemplary one-run opening over. Archer followed up with a quick wicket, removing Pratik Athavale. Archer’s second strike saw Aqib Ilyas caught at backward point, and Wood quickly added to the tally by dismissing Zeeshan Maqsood and Kashyap Prajapati.
With Oman reeling, Rashid capitalized on their vulnerability. He bowled four consecutive overs, taking a wicket in each and conceding just one boundary. His first wicket was a dramatic leg-break that stumped Khalid Kail. Moeen Ali redeemed an earlier drop by catching Mehran Khan, while Wood claimed his 50th T20I wicket by dismissing Ayaan Khan.
Rashid’s precision continued as he bowled Fayyaz Butt with a googly and repeated the feat against Kaleemullah, leaving Oman at 47 for 9. Archer finished the innings by removing Shoaib Khan, ensuring Oman were all out before Buttler needed to use a fifth bowler.
To surpass Scotland’s net run-rate, England needed to chase the target in 5.2 overs or less. Phil Salt began aggressively, hitting Bilal Khan’s first two balls for six. Though Salt was soon bowled, the chase was straightforward from there. Will Jacks and Jonny Bairstow kept the momentum, with Buttler delivering the final blows. Buttler’s powerful hitting, including four boundaries and a six off Bilal, ensured a rapid finish, completing the chase in just 3.2 overs.
Assuming England secures a win against Namibia on Saturday, Scotland will face the daunting task of beating Group B leaders Australia to progress to the Super 8s. England’s comprehensive performance against Oman has put them back in contention, showcasing their ability to dominate and adapt under pressure.
