Although Shikhar Dhawan is not a part of the Indian cricket team at the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup in Oman and the UAE, cricket fans had the opportunity to feel his presence and fun vibe during the tournament opener between Oman and debutants Papua New Guinea (PNG) in Al Amerat on Sunday. Oman’s batter Jatinder Singh reenacted Dhawan’s iconic ‘thigh-five’ celebration while fielding during PNG’s innings taking a catch. This came after PNG’s Assad Vala, while attempting a shot through wide long-on, gave away a winning edge. 

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Jatinder right after taking the catch did the ‘thigh-five, reminding the fans of the India opener Dhawan’s signature celebration move.  

“I am a huge fan of Shikhar paaji. I love celebrating like that on the ground. It brings out the Punjabi in me. Also, it was amazing to go out there and hit those shots for the team,” Singh told Hindustan Times.

“My family belongs to the Ramgarhia community and has been involved in carpentry for generations. I am the first and only sportsperson in our entire clan. I feel so proud and privileged. Cricket is my passion and I want to do well for Oman in the ongoing T20 World Cup as we are the co-hosts also,” said Singh. 

Jatinder led Oman to a comfortable 10-wicket win as they began their campaign on Sunday. He won the toss and was elected to field first against PNG.

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Openers Aqib Ilyas and Jatinder Singh scored half-centuries in a crushing win against Papua New Guinea. 

PNG skipper Assad Vala came as a hope during distressing times and LED his team from 0 for 2 to 102-4 in 14 overs. He registered a half-century before he was dismissed by Kaleemullah. Charles Amini, alongside Vala, scored 37 off 26 balls. He was run out by Mohammad Nadeem.