New Delhi, Feb. 2 -- The defining moment of Oman's cricketing journey came during their spirited showing against India at the Asia Cup 2025 in Abu Dhabi. Though the Jatinder Singh-led side went down by 21 runs, the performance of the world No. 20 side against the Men in Blue turned heads across the cricketing world.

Chasing India's 188/4, Aamir Kaleem (64) and Hammad Mirza (51) gave Suryakumar Yadav's team a genuine scare before Oman finished on 167/4 in 20 overs. It was Oman's debut appearance in the continental showpiece, and the lack of big-match experience ultimately told.

Yet, the impact of that game went far beyond the result.

That performance against India gave Oman belief. A belief that they are no pushovers. A Suryakumar maste...