Saturday 14 / February / 2026
MUSCAT: Excitement is building across the Sultanate of Oman as cricket fans gear up for the much-anticipated India–Pakistan T20 clash in Colombo on Sunday.
The high-voltage encounter is scheduled for February 15 at 5.30pm Oman time, drawing keen interest from supporters across Muscat. While some fans have travelled to Sri Lanka to witness the action live, many others are choosing to gather at hotels, cinemas and restaurants to experience the thrill together.
Both teams head into the fixture unbeaten, heightening anticipation for what promises to be an intense and emotionally charged contest.
Hotels and cinemas turn into cricket hubs
Several leading venues in Muscat are transforming into vibrant cricket hubs with live screenings, special food offers and stadium-style atmospheres.
Among those hosting live telecasts are the Sheraton Oman Hotel, VOX Cinemas Oman and Beyond Kitchen.
“We expect a good crowd,” said Rejin Thomas, Hotel Manager at Sheraton Oman.
“It’s a rare chance for cricket lovers to enjoy the match together, cheer for their teams, and have tasty bites alongside the action.”
Restaurants are also capitalising on the cricket buzz. Sheraton Oman in Ruwi has announced live screening facilities and anticipates full bookings as fans rush to reserve prime spots.
“The energy will be fantastic,” said Shiv Gupta of Beyond Kitchen. “India versus Pakistan is always special; the atmosphere will be electric.”
More than just a match
For many expatriates from the subcontinent, the clash represents more than a sporting contest — it is nostalgia, national pride and community spirit rolled into one. Watching in groups magnifies every boundary, wicket and close call, triggering collective cheers and groans.
Suraj, an Indian expatriate, said he plans to head straight from work to one of the screening venues with friends. “It is going to be great fun watching on a large screen and enjoying it with friends as we missed out on going to Colombo. Nothing beats watching such a big match in a hotel or restaurant with a large group,” he said.
As the countdown continues, Muscat is preparing for its own version of cricket fever.
For hoteliers and restaurateurs, the blockbuster India–Pakistan encounter presents not only a major sporting spectacle but also a valuable opportunity to combine sport with hospitality and create a memorable evening for fans on both sides.
