In a historic feat, Oman’s batsman Kashyap Prajapati etched his name in the record books by smashing a century in the opening match of the Super-6 stage of the ICC World Cup Qualifier.
Prajapati’s remarkable achievement is notable as he became the first player from Oman to score a century against a Test-playing team in international cricket. This magnificent innings marked his maiden ODI century, capping off an impressive display of batting skills.
Facing a daunting target set by Zimbabwe, Kashyap Prajapati reached the coveted century milestone in just 93 deliveries. It is worth mentioning that he had previously showcased his talent with a resilient knock of 72 runs against Ireland.
However, this century against a full-fledged ICC member team holds special significance for him. During the match, Prajapati formed a valuable 83-run partnership alongside Aqib Ilyas, who contributed 45 runs off 99 balls.
Following the century, Kashyap Prajapati celebrated his remarkable feat by emulating the iconic sword celebration famously associated with the Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.
Kashyap Prajapati celebrates his ton just like Jadeja : WATCH
This century not only placed him in the annals of Omani cricket history but also solidified his position as the first batsman from Oman to achieve such a remarkable milestone against a full-member team. Despite his exceptional century, Oman fell short of victory, succumbing to defeat.
It is noteworthy that Kashyap Prajapati has represented Oman in 28 ODI matches thus far, accumulating an impressive total of 790 runs in 27 innings at an average of nearly 30.
Among his noteworthy achievements, he has recorded one century and five half-centuries. His strike rate stands at 75.16. Kashyap made his ODI debut on 26 September 2021 against Papua New Guinea, marking the beginning of his international cricket journey.
Shifting focus to the match itself, Zimbabwe, batting first, amassed a formidable total of 332 runs while losing seven wickets. Shaun Williams played a scintillating innings, registering a magnificent century with 142 runs to his name. In pursuit of the mammoth target of 333, Oman exhibited moments of promising gameplay.
However, the dismissals of Kashyap Prajapati and Aaqib Ilyas proved to be turning points, leading to a subsequent collapse and a narrow defeat by 14 runs. Oman concluded their innings at 318 runs for the loss of nine wickets after the completion of 50 overs.