Oman vs Zimbabwe Match Preview | ICC Men's T20 World Cup Warm-up Match 2026

Date & Time: 05 February 2026, 07:30 GMT
Venue: Colombo Cricket Club Ground, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Match Format: T20
Series: ICC Men's T20 World Cup Warm-up Matches 2026
Match No.: 11

Match Overview

Oman and Zimbabwe are set to lock horns in what promises to be an exciting encounter in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Warm-up Matches. The match will be played at the Colombo Cricket Club Ground in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and is scheduled to start at 07:30 GMT on 05 February 2026. This fixture is crucial for both teams as they fine-tune their strategies and test their squad depth ahead of the main tournament.

The venue is expected to offer a balanced pitch, making it a true contest of skill between the batsmen and bowlers. Both teams will be eager to make a strong statement in this preparatory match.

Team Form and Strengths

Oman

Oman has shown consistent improvement in recent T20I matches, with a well-balanced squad that can compete with the best. The team's strength lies in its aggressive batting and disciplined bowling. Key performers like Usama Mir and Khawar Ali have been instrumental in the middle and death overs, respectively.

Oman’s approach in the warm-up matches has been to play fearless cricket, and they will aim to continue that trend against Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe, on the other hand, has been in fine form and is a team to be reckoned with in the shortest format. They have a solid batting lineup led by Tadiwanashe Marumani, and their bowling attack is spearheaded by experienced campaigners like Richard Ngarava, Wellington Masakadza, and Tinotenda Maposa.

Zimbabwe will look to use their experience and aggressive intent to outplay Oman and secure a vital win in this warm-up fixture.

Head-to-Head and Previous Meetings

The two teams have met in a handful of T20I fixtures in recent years, with Zimbabwe holding a slight edge in the head-to-head record. However, each match has been closely contested, and Oman has shown the ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.

This match is expected to be another tight affair, with both teams eager to make a strong impression ahead of the T20 World Cup.

Key Players to Watch

Oman

• Usama Mir – A left-arm spinner who can turn the game in crucial moments.
• Khawar Ali – A death-overs specialist with a knack for taking wickets and restricting runs.
• Mohammed Naveed – A dynamic opener who has the ability to change the course of the game early on.

Zimbabwe

• Tadiwanashe Marumani – A top-order batsman who can anchor the innings and accelerate when needed.
• Richard Ngarava – A left-arm fast bowler with a good economy rate and ability to take wickets at critical junctures.
• Tinotenda Maposa – A versatile all-rounder who contributes with both bat and ball.

Match Prediction

This match is a must-watch for cricket fans, as it promises to be a competitive and high-quality T20 encounter. While Zimbabwe comes into the game with a slight edge in form and experience, Oman’s balanced squad and home advantage (in terms of pitch familiarity) could tip the scales in their favor.

Prediction: The match is expected to be closely contested, but Zimbabwe could edge out Oman with a combination of disciplined bowling and aggressive batting.

How to Watch

• Live Score & Updates: Available on NDTV Sports, JioHotstar, and other major cricket platforms.
• Broadcast: Confirm local TV and streaming options for live coverage in your region.

Final Thoughts

As the countdown to the T20 World Cup begins, this warm-up match between Oman and Zimbabwe will serve as a key indicator of both teams' readiness. With a balanced pitch and two competitive squads, the match promises to deliver high entertainment and valuable insights for both teams.

Cricket fans around the world are in for a treat as the action kicks off at 07:30 GMT on 05 February 2026.
“`