Shahheen Afridi Reclaims Top Spot as ICC’s No. 1 ODI Bowler, Big Climbs for Samson and Others
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled its latest player rankings for One Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20Is, and there are some significant shifts. Pakistan’s star fast bowler, Shaheen Afridi, has regained the top position in the ODI bowling rankings, climbing three places to dethrone South Africa’s Keshav Maharaj. Afridi’s rise comes after a brilliant performance against Australia in the recent ODI series, where he claimed eight wickets at an average of 12.62, including a standout effort during the 2023 ODI World Cup that saw him briefly hold the number-one rank.
Alongside Afridi’s success, his fellow Pakistani pacers have also made notable gains. Haris Rauf, who was named Player of the Series for his exceptional 10-wicket haul against Australia, surged 14 places up to 13th. Meanwhile, Naseem Shah, another rising star, climbed 14 spots to reach a career-best 55th position.
In the ODI batting rankings, Pakistan’s Babar Azam continues to hold onto his top spot. Azam’s consistency remains unparalleled, as he added 80 runs to his tally in the series against Australia, helping Pakistan secure a historic 2-1 series win over the Aussies in Australia, marking their first ODI series victory there in 22 years.
In T20I cricket, India’s wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson has seen a massive leap in the rankings. Samson soared 27 places to reach 39th after a remarkable century in the first T20 match against South Africa, although he fell for a duck in the second game. His performance, alongside South Africa’s Reza Hendricks and Tristan Stubbs, who also gained in the rankings, has made an impact. Hendricks moved up two places to 12th, while Stubbs jumped 12 spots to 26th after his crucial knock of 47*.
The T20I bowling rankings have also seen some shifts. Sri Lanka’s Wanindu Hasaranga made a significant climb, moving up four spots to 2nd, while England’s Adil Rashid retains the top spot. India’s Ravi Bishnoi gained one spot to rise to 7th, while other notable fast bowlers, including England’s Jofra Archer and Sri Lanka’s Mathesa Pathirana, also saw improvements.
This latest ICC ranking update highlights some remarkable performances and upward movements, setting the stage for more thrilling cricket action as the international season continues.
