Pakistan reclaims top spot in ICC men’s ODI rankings

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has surged to the pinnacle of the International Cricket Council (ICC) men’s ODI rankings following a flawless performance against Afghanistan in a three-match series held in Sri Lanka.

Prior to the series, Pakistan held the second position with a rating of 116, trailing Australia by a mere two ratings. However, their commanding 3-0 triumph has propelled Pakistan to the forefront of the rankings, now commanding a rating of 118, surpassing Australia in points.

From Green Shirts to ODI Kings 👑

Pakistan leads ICC men's ODI rankings after a stellar series against Afghanistan 🔥#PakistanCricket #AFGvPAK pic.twitter.com/Sk3qEW3zAu

— Cricket Pakistan (@cricketpakcompk) August 26, 2023

This marks Green team’s second ascent to the top of the ODI rankings this year. The initial climb occurred after a victorious streak of four matches against New Zealand in a five-match series back in May. Nonetheless, a defeat in the fifth and final match against New Zealand enabled Australia to regain the coveted top spot.

Read More: Pakistan beats Afghanistan by 59 runs, secure top spot in ODI cricket rankings

Meanwhile, in the upcoming sporting calendar, Pakistan is set to participate in the 2023 Asia Cup. Their opening match in the six-team tournament is scheduled against Nepal in Multan on August 30.

Subsequently, Pakistan will engage in official warm-up matches against New Zealand and Australia in preparation for the World Cup. Their maiden contest in this year’s tournament is against the Netherlands in Hyderabad on October 6.