Full Name: Aqib Ilyas Sulehri Date of Birth: September 5, 1992 Place of Birth: Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan Role: Top-order Batter | Vice-Captain Aqib Ilyas is not just one of Oman’s most talented cricketers—he’s also one of the most admired for his resilience, elegance, and class, both on and off the field. As the vice-captain of the Oman national team, and a key top-order batter wearing jersey number 17, Aqib’s journey has been about pushing limits and redefining expectations. Born in Sialkot, Pakistan, a city with rich cricketing roots, Aqib moved to Oman with his family in his teens. Settling in Muscat, he quickly made a name for himself in local cricket circuits with his clean strokeplay, solid technique, and fearless mindset. By his early twenties, his dominance at the domestic level was too obvious to ignore, and he earned his call-up to the national squad in 2015. From the moment he debuted, Aqib proved to be a vital cog in Oman's batting order. He showed tremendous promise in the 2019 ICC World Cricket League Division Two, and then, in the ICC CWC League 2, he truly exploded onto the global scene. His back-to-back centuries against USA (109)* and Namibia (118)* in early 2020 weren't just statistically remarkable—they were statements. He became the first Omani cricketer to score two centuries in an ODI series, leading his team to memorable victories. As a batter, Aqib blends classical shots with modern aggression. He’s particularly strong through the covers and midwicket, often dictating the tempo of an innings. At the crease, he’s calm, composed, and incredibly focused. Beyond batting, he’s also a handy off-spinner, often breaking partnerships and adding value as a part-time bowler. But Aqib’s story goes far beyond just cricket. In 2022, his career took an unexpected detour when he was diagnosed with a tumor in his ankle. The diagnosis came at a time when he was peaking, and it forced him into a sudden break from the game. It was a moment that could have ended many careers—but not his. With the support of his family and teammates, Aqib underwent surgery and rehabilitation, returning stronger, more grounded, and even more determined. When he walked back onto the field in 2023, the applause wasn't just for a cricketer—but for a fighter. His comeback was a defining chapter, one that inspired not just his team but cricket lovers across the Associate world. As Oman continues to grow as a cricketing nation, Aqib Ilyas stands out as the bridge between talent and tenacity. He is a leader in every sense—intelligent, humble, and driven to elevate the game in Oman. With many years still ahead of him, his goals go beyond personal records. He wants Oman to become a permanent fixture in ICC events and dreams of seeing young Omani-born players wearing the national jersey. Jersey number 17 is now inseparable from the story of Oman’s golden era. And at the heart of it is Aqib Ilyas—a player of class, courage, and conviction.