Mohammed Siraj, the Indian pace sensation, has ascended eight positions to claim the coveted title of the world’s No. 1 ODI bowler in the latest ICC ODI rankings. His remarkable performance during the Asia Cup 2023, where he secured 10 wickets with an outstanding average of 12.2, propelled him to the top spot. Siraj delivered a remarkable spell of 6 for 21 as India triumphed over Sri Lanka by 10 wickets to clinch the Asia Cup title for a record-extending eighth time.
Siraj’s phenomenal new-ball spell dismantled the Sri Lankan top order, and he also became the first Indian bowler to take four wickets in a single over in international cricket. This achievement marks his return to the number one ranking after a five-month hiatus. He previously held the No.1 position in January before being displaced by Josh Hazlewood in March.
In addition to Siraj’s resurgence, South African spinner Keshav Maharaj has reached the 15th position, a remarkable improvement of 10 places from his previous career-best ranking. Maharaj played a pivotal role in South Africa’s 3-2 ODI series victory against Australia, securing eight wickets in the series, including a match-winning four-wicket haul in the fifth and final ODI.
Afghan Spin Duo Surges
The Afghanistan spin duo of Mujeeb-ur Rahman (4th) and Rashid Khan (5th) also achieved significant gains in the bowling rankings.
Batting Standouts
In the batting rankings, South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen and England’s Dawid Malan witnessed substantial advancements following their prolific performances against Australia and New Zealand, respectively. Klaasen’s exceptional knock of 174 runs against Australia in the fifth ODI in Centurion propelled him into the top 10 for the first time.
On the other hand, Malan achieved a career-best 13th position after amassing 277 runs in the three matches he played during the series against New Zealand.
Additionally, star English player Ben Stokes surged 13 spots to reach the 36th position in the rankings after registering England’s highest-ever score of 182 at The Oval.
