MUSCAT, APRIL 30
The Oman Bowling Committee concluded the National Bowling Team Trial for April 2026 at the Seeb Bowling Centre, following four days of strong competition from April 26 to 29.
The championship brought together a wide field of 36 Omani players seeking to earn places in the national team ahead of upcoming regional and international events. It also formed part of the committee’s monthly competition programme, which will continue until September.
The April trial witnessed close contests across the rounds, with the final day proving decisive in shaping the overall standings. Players were tested on consistency, focus and their ability to adapt to changing oil patterns.
Juma al Habsi topped the overall standings with 4,525 points and an average of 188.5, ahead of Moosa al Maimani, who finished second with 4,426 points and an average of 184.4. Sultan al Jabri came third with 4,378 points and an average of 182.4.
Hassan al Azri took fourth place with 4,305 points, followed by Mahmood al Hadidi in fifth with 4,298 points. Marwan al Zadjali delivered one of the strongest final-day performances, scoring 1,161 points to finish sixth overall with 4,284 points.
The remaining top-10 places went to Ahmed al Jabri in seventh with 4,223 points, Abdullah al Balushi in eighth with 4,191 points, Badr al Mahrami in ninth with 4,152 points, and Khalid Issa in tenth with 4,075 points.
WIDER PLAN
National team coach Honpyo Lee said the event was part of a wider plan to hold monthly competitions from April to September. "The championship is open to all Omani bowling players and also serves as a national team trial. Any player, whether young or new to the sport, can join the national team if he performs well. We are keen to give everyone the opportunity," he said.
Lee added that the participation of female players gave the event wider value, with handicap points applied in line with the competition system. He noted that the national team is gradually becoming younger, which he described as a positive sign for the future of Omani bowling. He also confirmed that the team is preparing for the GCC Championship and the Arab Championship this year.
Former national team player Ahmed bin Ali al Mafraji said the championship showed the importance of experience. The levels varied, but experienced players had a clear presence in the advanced positions. The changing oil patterns required high concentration and the ability to adapt, he said.
Al Mafraji called for more regular competitions throughout the year and urged wider organisation beyond Muscat, saying players need to compete in different centres and conditions. He also stressed the importance of attracting young players from schools and preparing them through dedicated training programmes.
Marwan al Zadjali, a player from Bausher Club, said his second participation was more successful after continued training. The championship was difficult, especially with the oil pattern, but it gave us important experience. My ambition is to earn a place in the national team and represent Oman internationally, he said.
The April trial provided the Oman Bowling Committee with key indicators ahead of the next stage of national team selection and preparation.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
