Oman, who play in World Cricket League Division Five, have qualified for the ICC World Twenty20, in 2016 in India, after defeating Namibia by five wickets. Oman, who began their qualification campaign with a defeat to Kenya, went on to beat the Netherlands and Afghanistan before qualifying by chasing Namibia’s 148 for nine. They finished on 150 for five in the fourth and final qualifying play-off at The Village in Malahide.
Zeeshan Siddiqui scored the winning runs, part of an unbeaten half-century that sparked rapturous celebrations among the Omanis.
With 18 runs needed off 14 balls, Oman had looked in trouble when Mehran Khan went for a duck attempting a six on his second ball but Siddiqui steadied the ship. “We wanted to play positive cricket,” he said. “Our plan has worked and we are very happy.”
Sultan Ahmed was also delighted with the result. “This is very important for our team and our country,” the captain said. “I am very glad. Credit goes to all our team-mates and support staff. We started poorly but we decided against Canada when we were chasing we could beat any team. It will be a party tonight.”
