'It is the best time to crush': Oman captain fires up team against struggling Australia
Times of India
by TOI SPORTS DESKFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Oman captain Jatinder Singh has expressed unwavering confidence ahead of his team's final group-stage match against Australia in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Speaking to the ICC, Singh declared, "It is the best time to crush" the struggling Australian side, as Oman aims to capitalize on a faltering opponent. Despite being eliminated from the tournament, the Omani squad remains upbeat and determined to make a strong statement in their last game.
Australia, once tipped as favorites for the tournament, has struggled to find form. After a narrow victory over Ireland in their opening match, they suffered back-to-back defeats against Zimbabwe and co-host Sri Lanka, ruling them out of the Super 8 stage. With only one win in three group matches, Australia's campaign has been a far cry from their 2021 T20 World Cup triumph.
Singh emphasized that T20 cricket is a game of momentum and key moments, which his team hopes to exploit against a struggling Australian side. He stressed that Oman's positive spirit and focus on playing better cricket, despite unfavorable outcomes, has kept the squad motivated. The captain highlighted that the opportunity to face a faltering Australia is a chance for Oman to make a mark in their final game.
While both teams have been eliminated from contention, the match at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium promises to be a defining moment for Oman, as they aim to end their tournament on a high note. The clash will showcase the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket, where underdogs can rise to the occasion and rewrite their tournament narrative.
This match matters to readers interested in the world of cricket, particularly those following the T20 World Cup. It highlights the resilience of Oman's team and the challenges faced by a once-dominant Australian side. The outcome could also provide valuable insights into how teams handle pressure and momentum in high-stakes matches, making it an eagerly anticipated encounter for fans worldwide.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/20/2026