MUSCAT, August 31
Arman Jaffer smashed a scintillating 122 as Mumbai inflicted a crushing 231-run defeat on Oman in the second one-day to take the unassailable 2-0 lead in the four-match series here at Oman Cricket Academy Ground One in Al Amerat on Tuesday.
Mumbai appear to be batting better as the tour progresses and Arman’s century was the highlight of their 300 for 8 that included a superb unbeaten 73 from all-rounder Sujit Naik.
Oman pacer Mohammed Nadeem picked up 4 for 67, while spinner Nester Dhamba bagged 2 for 30.
Concerned over a string of low scores during the series, Oman surprised everyone with another batting low, getting dismissed for an embarrassing 69 all out in just 22.5 overs, only Nadeem holding his ground amid the ruins with a patient 35.
Mohit Avasthi was the pick of Mumbai bowlers, claiming 4 for 31. Drumil Matkar was equally impressive, taking his 3 wickets for 21.
Man of the match Arman said he felt in great touch throughout his 114-ball knock.
“I am happy to have scored a century. It was long overdue and it feels great to have contributed to my team’s win,” he said.
Mumbai captain Shams Mulani was delighted at his young team finally finding its groove in Oman.
“Our batting really flourished today. We needed somebody to come out and put a big score on the board. I am happy that Arman and Sujith batted brilliantly and laid the foundation for today’s win,” he added.
After Wednesday’s rest day, the two teams will play the third game on Thursday before winding up the series with Friday’s last one-day match.
Brief scores: Mumbai 300 for 8 in 50 overs (Arman Jaffer 122 – 11x4, 3x6, Sujit Naik 73 not out – 6x4, Chinmay Sutar 37 – 2x4, 1x6, Yashasvi Jaiswal 27 – 2x4, 2x6. Mohammed Nadeem 4-67, Nester Dhamba 2-30) thrashed Oman 69 all out in 22.5 overs (Mohammed Nadeem 35 – 3x4, 1x6. Mohit Avasthi 4-31, Dhrumil Matkar 3-21, Deepak Shetty 2-09) by 231 runs.
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