
Pallekele: Already out of contention for the Super 8 stage, Australia signed off their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a crushing nine-wicket victory over Oman at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. A clinical bowling performance led by Adam Zampa set the tone before skipper Mitchell Marsh unleashed a blistering half-century to complete a one-sided contest.
Australia’s Bowlers Dominate
After winning the toss, Australia opted to field first — a decision that paid immediate dividends. Xavier Bartlett struck on the very first ball, dismissing Aamir Kaleem and putting Oman under early pressure.
Oman’s captain Jatinder Singh and Karan Sonavale attempted to stabilize the innings with a brief 24-run stand, but wickets continued to tumble at regular intervals. At the end of the powerplay, Oman were struggling at 47 for 3.
Once Zampa was introduced into the attack, the collapse accelerated. The experienced leg-spinner removed Hammad Mirza in his first over and went on to dismantle the middle order, finishing with outstanding figures of 4 for 21. Bartlett and Glenn Maxwell chipped in with two wickets apiece as Oman were bowled out for just 104 in the 17th over.
Wasim Ali top-scored for Oman with a fighting 32 off 33 balls, but the total proved far from competitive.
Marsh and Head Finish in Style
Chasing a modest target of 105, Australia made their intentions clear from the outset. Marsh hammered three boundaries in the opening over. Though he had a close call on the final ball of that over — with Oman opting not to review — he made the most of the reprieve.
Australia raced to 50 within five overs. Marsh brought up his half-century in just 26 deliveries, showcasing aggressive stroke play all around the ground. He eventually remained unbeaten on 64 off 33 balls.
Travis Head contributed a brisk 32 before falling, but the result was never in doubt. Australia chased down the target in just 9.4 overs, sealing a comprehensive win.
Oman Exit Without a Victory
For Oman, the tournament ended without a single win, highlighting the gulf in class against a seasoned Australian side. While Australia may have missed out on the knockout rounds, they ensured their campaign concluded on a dominant note.
The emphatic victory served as a reminder of Australia’s depth and firepower — even in a tournament where results did not go entirely their way.
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