Oman’s World Cup hopes under pressure as Namibia stay in contention

Oman suffered a damaging 10-run loss to Nepal in Al-Amerat on Monday, leaving the race for the final top-four position in ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 unresolved ahead of the 2027 Cricket World Cup Qualifier.

Nepal posted 280, powered by a 139-run partnership between Dipendra Singh Airee, who scored 69, and captain Rohit Paudel, who made 80. Oman’s Shah Faisal responded with an impressive five-wicket haul.

Oman appeared well placed during the chase, as Jatinder Singh and Hammad Mirza combined for 158 runs for the second wicket. Their dismissals, however, triggered a collapse, with Oman eventually finishing on 270/7.

Both Oman and Namibia have 33 points, although Namibia have completed their 36 matches. Oman have four games remaining and need just one more point to secure their position.

Their final League 2 fixtures against the UAE and Netherlands will now carry enormous significance, with Namibia watching closely.