Spinners Dominate as USA Defends 123 Against Oman in ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2
In a stunning display of spin bowling, the USA defended a mere 123 runs against Oman, breaking India’s long-standing record for the lowest total successfully defended in a full men’s ODI.
Previously, India held the record for defending 125 runs against Pakistan in the 1985 Rothmans Four-Nations Cup in Sharjah, where they won by 38 runs. However, USA’s remarkable 57-run victory over Oman in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 on Tuesday set a new benchmark in ODI cricket.
A Match Dominated by Spin: A Unique ODI Feat
The match was historical in more ways than one, as it became the first ODI in history (out of 4,671 matches) where not a single delivery was bowled by a pacer. All nine bowlers used in the game were spinners, making it an unprecedented event in the cricketing world.
Additionally, 19 wickets fell to spin, equaling the record set in a 2011 ODI between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Chattogram.
Another unique statistic was the combined total of just 187 runs in 61 overs, making it the second-lowest aggregate in an ODI where both teams were dismissed, after India vs Bangladesh (163 runs) in a 2014 ODI.
Milind Kumar, Nosthush Kenjige Star in USA’s Victory
Batting first after losing the toss, USA struggled as Milind Kumar played a lone hand with a 47 off 82 deliveries* to help them reach 123 runs. Oman’s Shakeel Ahmad was the pick of the bowlers, taking 3 wickets for 20 runs.
In response, Oman collapsed spectacularly, with Hammad Mirza being the only batter to cross double digits, scoring 29 off 43 balls.
USA’s Nosthush Kenjige emerged as the match-winner, spinning a web around the Oman batters and finishing with a brilliant 5-wicket haul. Oman crumbled for just 65 runs, handing USA a 57-run victory in an unforgettable low-scoring thriller.
Conclusion
USA’s record-breaking win will be remembered as one of the greatest defensive performances in ODI cricket history. The match not only saw the lowest total defended in a full ODI but also showcased the dominance of spin bowling like never before.
With this victory, USA strengthens its presence in world cricket, while Oman will look to bounce back from a game where they let history slip away.