‘Our powerplay had boundaries galore, but we leaked wickets,’ Tucker admitted. ‘The fast outfield and true pitch helped us push on.’ Batting first after losing the toss, Ireland recovered from 64/4 thanks to Tucker’s 51-ball onslaught (10×4, 4×6) and Delany’s brisk 56 (30 balls, 3×4, 4×6). Their 101-run partnership off 56 balls rescued the innings, before Dockrell’s 35 off 9 (5×6) propelled them to 235/5.

Oman faltered in pursuit, managing only 139 all out. Kaleem’s 50 and Mirza’s 46 offered resistance, but Ireland’s bowlers struck back. Little claimed 3/16 in four overs, Humphreys took 2/27, and McCarthy grabbed 2/32.

Tucker elaborated on strategy: ‘Early losses meant we had to shoulder more responsibility. We executed our spin playbook perfectly, maintaining patience and momentum while punishing errors.’

Dockrell’s late blitz and Delany’s acceleration were game-changers, as per the captain. Ireland’s clinical performance underscores their depth and firepower, setting a high bar early in the tournament.