The Netherlands defeats Oman to tie the series thanks to captain Edwards.

Oman’s remarkable five-match winning streak at home, which included four straight wins in the World Cup Cricket League 2 ODI tri-series and a victory in the opening Twenty20 International against the Dutchmen, was also stopped by the loss.

MUSCAT: The Netherlands leveled the three-match T20I series 1-1 on Thursday night at the Oman Cricket Academy ground after captain Scott Edwards’ brilliant effort of 99 off 55 balls led his team to a decisive 50-run victory over Oman. The loss also put an end to Oman’s remarkable five-match winning run at home, which included victory in the first Twenty20 International against the Dutch and four straight victories in the World Cup Cricket League 2 ODI tri-series.

After being sent into bat, the Netherlands recovered from a shaky start to post a formidable 185/6. Edwards was the backbone of the innings, smashing seven fours and five sixes. His partnerships with Max O’Dowd (23) and later Noah Croes (28* off 18) ensured the Dutch set a daunting target.

Oman’s bowlers struggled to contain the Dutch skipper, with Jay Odedra (2/13) and Shakeel Ahmed (1/23) being the key performers.

Oman’s chase faltered early as their skipper Jatinder Singh fell for 2, and they were reduced to 8/2 within two overs. Aamir Kaleem (36 off 22) and Hammad Mirza (23 off 18) attempted to stabilise the innings, but the Netherlands’ disciplined bowling, led by Colin Ackermann (3/15) and Roelof van der Merwe (1/11), kept the hosts in check. Shakeel Ahmed (30) and Jay Odedra (25) added a spirited 47-run partnership for the eighth wicket, but the target proved insurmountable as Oman finished on 135/7.

The win sets up a exciting decider in the third T20I on Saturday, with both teams vying for the series trophy.

For all the latest news from Oman and GCC, follow us on Instagram, like us on Facebook & subscribe to our YouTube Channel, which is updated daily.