Oman women defeat China to begin ACC Premier Cup campaign in style

MUSCAT- The Oman women’s cricket team launched its ACC Women's T20 Premier Cup 2026 campaign on a winning note on Wednesday, securing a 16-run victory over China at the YSD-UKM Cricket Oval in Bangi, Malaysia.

Fueled by a disciplined defensive bowling display, Oman successfully defended a modest total of 105 as they bowled out their rivals for 89.

After losing the toss and being put in to bat by China, Oman faced early pressure on a tricky, slow surface as they were down to 25/2 in 5 overs after Nitya Joshi's 15.

Experienced Fiza Javed (12) and captain Priyanka Mendonsa (16) steadied the ship before a run-a-ball 27 from Amanda D'Costa provided the crucial anchor her team after both Fiza and Priyanka were run out adding to the run out of Nitya. 

Sameera Khan's 14 added late impetus and shared the highest 29-run partnership with Amanda to help Oman cross the 100-mark as they finished at 105/7.

Ma Ruike and Zhao Yihan picked up two wickets each. 

Defending 105 required precision, and Oman’s bowling unit delivered exactly that. Led by Priyanka, and aided strongly by Sushanthika Ashok and Jayadhanya Gunasekar, China were bowled out for 89 as four batters were run out.

Sushantika's spell of 2/11 stood out while Priyanka (2/24) and Jayadhanya (2/19) were the other wicket-takers.

Captain Zhu Mingyue top scored with 18 and Gong Yuting made 15. Ma Ruike contributed 12 as China collapsed to 89 in 18.4 overs.

This hard-fought victory grants Oman maximum points early in Group B. The event features 18 competing nations divided into four distinct groups battling it out.

Besides Oman and China, other teams in Group B are the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and the Philippines. Oman now meet the UAE on Thursday. 

The top two teams from each group will advance directly to the quarter-finals. The winners will advance to semi-finals with the four teams also ensuring a spot in the Women’s Asia Cup.

Brief scores: Oman 105/7 (Nitya Joshi 15, Fiza Javed 12, Priyanka Mendonsa 16, Amanda D Costa 27, Sameera Khan 14; Ma Ruike 2/16, Zhao Yihan 2/16) beat China 89 in 18.4 overs (Zhu Mingyue 18, Gong Yuting 15; Sushanthika Ashok 2/11, Priyanka Mendonsa 2/24, Jayadhanya Gunasekar 2/19).