Crucial century lifts Aqib’s confidence
Aqib Ilyas, who opened for Oman, had a disappointing start to the World Cricket League (WCL) Division 3 in the Sultanate. Ilyas had a low-scoring patch, managing 11 against Singapore, 22 against Kenya and only 4 against Denmark, till the crucial game against USA.
“Despite my bad start to the tournament, our coach Duleep Mendis had supported me saying that ‘I am a big-match player..and I have the temperament for a big innings in a big match,’” the righthanded batsman, who struck the match-winning century against USA said.
Aqib who started as opener in the first three matches, came in at one down for the match to hit exactly 100 runs which included 10 boundaries and a six from 122 balls. The innings also enabled Oman to post a four-wicket win and secure the WCL Division 2 spot.
MR CONSISTENT Oman’s ever-reliable player Jatinder Singh made his own contribution as Oman swept the WCL Division 3 tournament by winning all their five matches.
Jatinder, who was consistent performer for Oman, scored 73 against Denmark, 41 against Singapore, 33 against Kenya, 42 against USA and 36 not out against Uganda.
“I was determined to do well at home. As hosts, we want to take advantage of the situation. Credit to the entire team and coaching staff. We managed to do well and qualify for the WCL Division 2,” the batsman said.
On his own form, Jatinder said he was just focusing by each match.
“I just played according to the team requirements in the matches,” Jatinder, whose 73 earned him the man of the match award against Denmark said.
His 42 against USA was also a vital one in the closely-fought match.