ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Babar Azam has retained his position as the world’s second-ranked ODI batter, according to the latest rankings released by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday.
However, no Pakistani cricketer appeared in the top 10 all-rounders, underscoring a noticeable gap in the team’s all-round capabilities.
India’s Shubman Gill continues to dominate the ODI batters’ rankings, holding his top position. Babar Azam remains steady at second, while Indian captain Rohit Sharma holds third position.
Sri Lanka’s Charith Asalanka made notable progress, rising two spots to claim the sixth position, while Kusal Mendis jumped 10 places to break into the top ten at number ten.
In the bowlers’ rankings, Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana maintained his position at the top. Wanindu Hasaranga made a strong move up the list, climbing 11 spots to reach eighth place, while India’s Ravindra Jadeja slipped one position to ninth.
Pakistan’s pace spearhead, Shaheen Afridi, dropped one place to 12th, marking a slight dip in his ranking.
Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai continues to lead the ODI all-rounders’ rankings, with no Pakistani player included in the top 10.
This absence shows the need for Pakistan to develop stronger all-around talent to compete at the highest level.
The latest rankings come as teams prepare for their upcoming ODI series, with Pakistan aiming to strengthen their all-around capabilities to support Babar Azam’s consistently outstanding batting performances.
