Quick Navigation
Sri Lanka showed a dominating performance in the ICC World Cup Qualifiers against Oman. In Group B, Sri Lanka met Oman today at Queens Sports Club in Zimbabwe, where the Lankans secured a dominating victory by ten wickets. It is Sri Lanka’s second consecutive victory in the Qualifiers.
Toss: Dasun Shanaka, the captain of Sri Lanka, won the toss and opted to bowl first.
Hasaranga and Lahiru Kumara destroyed Oman
Losing the toss, Oman started their batting innings with Kumar Harishbai and Jatindar Singh. But they had a nightmare while facing the Lankan bowlers. Lankan bowler Lahiru Kumara drew the first blood of Oman as he picked up Kumar Harishbai in the 2nd over.
After that, Lahiru Kumara and Wanindu Hasaranga started destroying Oman’s batting lineup. Because of their high aggression, Oman lost all their wickets in 98 runs only. However, Ayan Khan scored the highest 41 runs for Oman. Besides, Wanindu Hasaranga picked up five wickets and Lahiru Kumara got three.
Sri Lanka chased without losing a wicket
Chasing the small target, Sri Lanka faced no difficulties. Opener Pathum Nissanka and Dimuth Karunaratne chased the target very comfortably. Their unbeaten partnership of 100 runs earned a dominating victory within 15 overs. Pathum Nissanka scored an unbeaten 37 runs with five boundaries. On the other hand, Dimuth Karunaratne was more aggressive between the wickets. He smashed a quick 61 runs from 51 balls. Relying on their bats, Sri Lanka won the game by 10 wickets.
What have the captains said?
Lankan skipper Dimuth Karunaratne praised his bowlers. He said, “It’s not about the toss, it’s about the body language and intent. Lahiru Kumara and the bowlers had great intent. We don’t take any team lightly.”
The skipper added, “Whenever I throw the ball to him he (Hasaranga) gets wickets, very good that he is taking five-wicket hauls. It’s a habit for them (openers giving good starts). This allows our hitters down the order to go hard later. Supporting staff and the management have done a great job in keeping the environment calm.”
On the other hand, Oman captain Zeeshan Maqsood said, “Good to play against Sri Lanka, we learnt a lot with the way they bowled and batted. First 10 overs we lost too many wickets. Ayaan with the bat was a positive to take from this game. We have been tested now, and that is good for us. We are still on our toes, we have two wins and we are looking forward. We cannot lose hope, keep fighting and play well. Unfortunately Ayaan couldn’t get the fifty, hopefully he will get it in the next game.”
