England Thrash Oman to Revive T20 World Cup Campaign with Record Victory

England reignited their T20 World Cup hopes with a stunning eight-wicket triumph over Oman in Antigua on Thursday. The defending champions needed a decisive win to boost their net run-rate (NRR) and keep their Super Eights qualification chances alive.

Oman, struggling against England’s potent mix of spin and pace, was bowled out for just 47 runs. Leg-spinner Adil Rashid spearheaded the attack with impressive figures of 4-11 from his four overs, while fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Mark Wood both contributed with 3-12 each.

England chased down the modest target of 50 in just 3.1 overs, with captain Jos Buttler remaining unbeaten on 24 and Jonny Bairstow hitting the winning boundary to stay not out on eight. Phil Salt started aggressively, hitting the first two deliveries for six before being bowled by Bilal Khan.

This victory, marked as the largest win in T20 World Cup history in terms of balls remaining, significantly improved England’s NRR to 3.081, surpassing Scotland’s 2.16. Despite the boost, England remained third in Group B with three points, trailing behind Scotland’s five points.

Oman’s dismal batting performance saw only Shoaib Khan reach double figures with 11 runs. Early damage was inflicted by Archer, who claimed 2-12 in his opening spell, followed by Wood’s impactful first over that reduced Oman to 25-4. Rashid continued the onslaught, with wicketkeeper Buttler stumping Khalid Kail off Rashid’s first delivery.

England’s next challenge is against Namibia on Saturday, while Scotland will face Australia on Sunday. The group stage concludes with England aiming to secure their spot in the Super Eights.