Three New Grounds to Boost Cricket

With the momentum of cricket accelerating rapidly in the Sultanate, Oman Cricket has announced a major expansion, unveiling plans for the construction of three new international-standard cricket grounds in Al Amerat. This ambitious development marks a significant leap forward in Oman’s emergence as a growing force in the global cricket community and aims to further establish the nation as a reliable host for international events.

In a recent development, Oman Cricket (OC) Chairman Pankaj Khimji revealed enhancement plans for the Oman Cricket Academy in preparation for hosting the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific (EAP) Qualifier 2025, set to commence on October 8. The tournament will feature nine competing nations, with the top three teams earning a coveted spot in the T20 World Cup 2025 in India and Sri Lanka.

“We are very privileged and thankful to the ICC for giving us the opportunity to host another major event,” said Pankaj Khimji, as he reviewed preparations for the World Cup qualifier.

Oman’s commitment to expanding cricket infrastructure has already earned acclaim from international players and officials, who have consistently praised the world-class facilities and high-quality pitches at Al Amerat. This next phase of growth promises to cement Oman’s status as a leading Associate cricketing nation.

“**Oman has developed world-class cricket infrastructure over the years — built with a lot of blood, sweat, and tears, and with immense support from the government and private sector. We are now enjoying the fruits of that effort, but the next phase is about scaling up.**” — Pankaj Khimji

Under the expansion plan, Oman Cricket has secured additional land adjacent to the current Academy complex to create three new turf grounds. The project will be executed in phases as part of a detailed master development plan.

“**We are working on a detailed master plan that includes three new turf grounds. The immediate focus is on the third ground, which we aim to complete by next year. The additional facilities will give us more resources to host bigger and better international tournaments in the years ahead.**” — Pankaj Khimji

Since Oman’s successful debut as a host during the 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the country’s cricketing reputation has soared. The Al Amerat facility continues to receive accolades for its hospitality, maintenance standards, and professional playing conditions.

“**Teams that visit Oman often tell us our grounds and infrastructure are on par with full-member nations. That’s a tremendous compliment and a motivation for us to keep improving.**” — Pankaj Khimji

But the vision for Oman Cricket extends beyond infrastructure. Developing a strong national team remains a top priority.

“**Our objective has always been cricket, cricket, cricket.**” — Alkesh Joshi, OC Treasurer

Joshi, who played a managerial role during Oman’s recent campaign in the Asia Cup, noted the pride generated by the team’s strong showing against India, one of the cricketing world’s powerhouse teams.

“**The boys played phenomenal cricket against India, and that performance gave them belief. If they can compete at that level, they can certainly excel at the Associate level.**” — Alkesh Joshi

Much of the improvement in fitness, agility, and fielding standards is credited to new additions in the support staff, including a strength and conditioning coach Shiva and physiotherapist Dr. Ashish.

“**You can see the difference on the field. The players are fitter, more alert, and more disciplined. The approach to fitness and fielding has improved.**” — Alkesh Joshi

With the Qualifiers around the corner, Oman is eyeing a place in the T20 World Cup for the fourth time, having previously qualified in 2016, 2021, and 2024.

“**Oman is the only associate nation from Asia to have played in three T20I World Cups… and we hope to make it two in a row by qualifying at home this time.**” — Alkesh Joshi

“**There’s no pressure, only pride. Playing at home is an advantage — and an opportunity to show the cricketing world what Oman can deliver, both on and off the field.**” — Alkesh Joshi

Oman’s vision for a Cricketing Renaissance 2.0, as termed by Chairman Khimji, is gaining traction. With new grounds, rising player standards, and tournament hosting credentials, cricket in the Sultanate is not just thriving — it is transforming.

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Team V.DIR-EM-UAE