Milind Kumar’s all-round performance and Nosthush Kenjige’s stunning spell of 5 for 11 led the USA to a record-breaking victory over Oman in the final ODI of the tri-series. The USA surpassed India in the record books by defending the lowest total ever in a full men’s ODI. After being bowled out for just 122 on a spin-friendly pitch, the USA dismissed Oman for 65, securing a comfortable 57-run win. The match, played at Al-Amarat, saw spinners dominate so heavily that neither team used a single fast bowler across nearly 70 overs.
USA’s Shakeel Ahmed set the tone early, dismissing Oman’s Smit Patel in the first over. USA’s decision to promote Harmeet Singh to number three paid off briefly as he hit a six, but his aggressive approach led to his dismissal soon after. Oman’s Aamir Kaleem struck with a brilliant delivery to send Monank Patel back for a duck, while Andries Gous fell to Shakeel, leaving USA struggling at four wickets down within the powerplay. Sai Teja Mukkamalla also failed to replicate his earlier form, falling cheaply.
Milind Kumar anchored the USA innings with a composed 47* off 82 balls
Milind Kumar anchored the USA innings with a composed 47* off 82 balls, blending caution and aggression to navigate the challenging conditions. Contributions from Aaron Jones and Sanjay Krishnamurthy provided brief support, but USA’s tail collapsed quickly, leaving Milind just short of a well-deserved fifty.
Oman’s chase began poorly as Jatinder Singh, their captain, fell early to a stunning catch by Kenjige off Milind’s bowling. Krishnamurthy then took a spectacular catch to dismiss Kaleem, further denting Oman’s hopes. Hammad Mirza and Hashir Dafedar struggled to build momentum, and Yasir Mohammed, playing his first game of the tour, broke their partnership with a crucial wicket. Kenjige then took center stage, triggering a dramatic collapse as Oman lost their last seven wickets for just 15 runs. His five-wicket haul sealed a dominant win for the USA.
