Panaji: Goa wrapped up a memorable ODI series against Oman with a dominant 126 run victory in the third and final match at the Oman Cricket Academy Ground in Al Amerat on Monday, August 17.
After being asked to bat first, Goa posted an imposing 305 for eight in 50 overs, powered by a magnificent unbeaten 143 from Shivendra Bhujbal. The right hander faced 135 deliveries and struck 11 fours and six sixes in a composed yet aggressive innings.
Bhujbal found an ideal partner in experienced batter Snehal Kauthankar, who contributed a brisk 71 from 66 balls. His innings included eight fours and two sixes. The pair added 121 runs to give Goa the platform needed to build a challenging total.
Goa’s middle and lower order then helped push the score beyond the 300 mark, setting Oman a target of 306.
Oman’s chase never gained momentum as Goa’s bowlers maintained pressure and picked up wickets at regular intervals. The hosts were eventually dismissed for 179 in 38.1 overs.
Jiten Ramanandi was Oman’s top scorer with a fighting 56 off 57 balls, while Mujibur Imran Ali added 44 and Hammad Mirza made 29. However, the lack of substantial partnerships left Oman struggling throughout the chase.
Abhinav Tejrana was Goa’s standout bowler, claiming four wickets for 37 runs. Deepraj Gaonkar and Heramb Parab picked up two wickets each, while Vasuki Koushik and Felix Alemao also contributed with a wicket apiece. Gaonkar completed the win by dismissing Ramanandi as Oman’s innings came to an end.
The victory completed a strong turnaround for Goa. Oman had won the opening ODI by 25 runs, but Goa responded by winning the second match by six wickets before producing their most convincing performance in the decider.
Goa’s 2 1 series triumph capped an impressive all round campaign, with Bhujbal’s match winning century and a disciplined bowling display proving decisive in the final encounter.
