Oman overcame a mid-innings wobble to stun Ireland and earn a thrilling two-wicket win on their ICC World Twenty20 debut.
Chasing 155 in the Group A fixture, Oman appeared to be cruising on 69 for none in the ninth over only to collapse to 90 for five.
Aamer Ali came to the crease with 65 needed from six overs but hit his third ball for six before putting Oman back in the driving seat with three successive fours off Tim Murtagh.
Ireland clawed their way back into the contest once again and 14 runs were required off the last over, but Max Sorensen’s first ball was a chest-high no ball that went for four and likewise the penultimate delivery as Oman celebrated victory in a global tournament at the first time of asking.
After winning the toss and deciding to bat, William Porterfield and Paul Sterling gave Ireland a solid platform with an opening partnership of 48.
Ireland continued to make steady progress but none of their batsmen passed 38 despite all reaching double figures.
Gary Wilson top scored and Ireland were grateful for Andy McBrine’s unbeaten 10 off three balls as they posted 154 for five.
Opening pair Zeeshan Maqsood and Khawar Ali scored 38 and 34 respectively to give Oman the perfect platform but after they were both dismissed by Kevin O’Brien, Ireland took control.
Porterfield’s side looked set to coast to victory after a flurry of wickets but Aamer Ali had other ideas.
He smashed five fours and a six in his 17-ball 32 and Oman got over the line despite his dismissal with three balls remaining.
#OMA #OMA #OMA #OMA #OMA#WT20 History Makers! pic.twitter.com/87U92Bhv5M
— ICC (@ICC) March 9, 2016
Source: ECB