In an inspiring quest to etch their names on the world stage, Oman’s U19 cricket team has embarked on an ambitious journey to Kathmandu, Nepal, for the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Asia Qualifier 2025. Departing from Muscat on April 8, the young cricketers are geared up to face some of Asia’s most formidable youth sides in a tournament that promises high-octane drama and fierce competitiveness.
Led by the dynamic Rahil Habibulla, Oman’s squad is a blend of seasoned talent and promising new faces. Six debutants—Rishab Gupta, Ojjus Pachisia, Ayush Karthyic, Kavish Shah, Vignesh Karthikeyan, and Aryan Joshi—join their more experienced teammates, adding fresh energy and innovative strategies to the mix. This thoughtful selection is the result of a rigorous process where an initial pool of 30 quality players was whittled down to the ultimate 14, reflecting a keen focus on versatility and resilience.
The excitement escalates as Oman kick-starts their qualifier campaign on April 13 with a clash against Afghanistan at the storied Mulpani International Cricket Ground. This inaugural encounter is set against a backdrop of soaring aspirations, particularly as the competition also hosts cricketing powerhouses Nepal, UAE, Hong Kong, and Afghanistan—each determined to secure their passage to the ICC U19 World Cup 2026 in Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Damith Warusavithana, the head coach of Oman from Sri Lanka, acknowledges the challenging task ahead and candidly states that his team enters the tournament as the underdogs. Despite the odds, his confidence is bolstered by a meticulously designed build-up program comprising over a dozen competitive matches and scenario-based training sessions aimed at simulating high-pressure moments. Warusavithana particularly lauded the squad’s commitment: balancing intense cricket preparation with academic responsibilities over a grueling February–March period, the players have exemplified discipline and passion.
Moreover, understanding that adapting to the unique pitch conditions in Nepal is pivotal, the Oman team has strategically arrived early to acclimatise—an often-overlooked edge in international tournaments. This proactive approach reflects not only tactical foresight but also an intrinsic desire to perform at their highest potential.
As the cricketing world eagerly watches, Oman’s journey is more than just a series of matches; it is a testament to ambition, teamwork, and the relentless pursuit of excellence on an international platform.
