Jatinder Singh (Oman Captain): (On choosing to bowl first) “Well, since it was a new track, we felt bowling first was the right option. We didn’t really know how the pitch would behave, and in the previous game, we were put in after losing the toss. So this time, the idea was to take control and assess conditions with the ball.
(On the strong start with spin) I think our spinners did quite well initially, and we were very much in the game after picking up four wickets. At that stage, we felt we had momentum. But credit to Tucker - the way he built that partnership with Delany was a masterclass. We tried to execute our plans, but unfortunately, we couldn’t sustain the pressure.
(On the turning point in the innings) After those early wickets, they managed to settle and take the game away from us through that partnership. That phase really shifted the balance. We had our chances, but at this level, small lapses can cost you heavily.
(On the daunting chase of 235) The message to the batters was very simple - you can’t approach a target like 235 defensively. You have to go out there with intent and play your strokes. But we ended up losing too many wickets in a short span, which made things very difficult for us.
(On where the chase slipped away) I think we were still in the contest for the first ten overs. The required rate was high, but manageable with wickets in hand. However, once we lost wickets quickly, we lost our grip on the game and couldn’t recover.
(On mindset after the defeat) We just have to keep our heads up. This is part of the learning curve for us. As a side, we do lack experience and exposure compared to the bigger teams, and the only way to improve is by playing more matches at this level.
(On looking ahead) Every game is an opportunity to learn and grow. We’ll regroup, work on the areas we need to improve, and come back stronger in the next match.”