Following India’s 21-run victory over Oman in Abu Dhabi on Friday, captain Suryakumar Yadav was seen surrounded by Omani players, offering guidance and praising their performance.
India batted first after winning the toss and scored 188/8 in 20 overs. Abhishek Sharma scores 38 off just 15 balls, and Sanju Samson anchors the innings with a 56-run knock. Tilak Varma and Axar Patel made cameo appearances, but India never distanced itself from Oman. Suryakumar did not bat, despite eight wickets falling, as the team gave other players opportunities. Notably, India sidelined Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakravarthy, focussing on bench strength instead.
In the chase, Oman’s skipper Jatinder Singh and veteran Aamir Kaleem stitched a strong 56-run opening stand before Hammad Mirza joined in with a 51. Kaleem, who top-scored with 64, looked to take the game away before a stunning catch by Hardik Pandya changed the situation. Despite the fight, Oman fell short, finishing at 167/4.
After the final ball, Suryakumar Yadav led his team towards Oman’s dugout, exchanging handshakes and smiles.
He then stayed back with Oman’s young cricketers, who gathered around to ask him questions about different phases of T20 cricket.
This is what sportsmanship looks like! 👏
– Suryakumar Yadav taking time to connect with and encourage the Oman players.
– A captain with a big heart. 🇮🇳#TheyCallHimOG #indvsoman #AsiaCup2025 pic.twitter.com/6Ms3pDBhno
— Cricket With RS (@badkebhai) September 19, 2025
Oman skipper Jatinder Singh, speaking at the presentation, revealed the impact of the Indian skipper’s words on his team players.
“Surya spoke about the game and praised us, which means a lot. Our boys had questions on how to play in different phases of T20 game. It was really nice to have a chat with him. Well, I think if we can get India coming forward, you know, letting us make their home our home. If we can train there, go to the NCAs, train our skill, mental aspects, the fitness part, and play a lot of T20s with the club teams and Ranji teams, I think that will definitely help us and that will fill the gap,” he said.
India
