A consistent top-ten player for nearly a decade, Rohit Sharma has finally claimed the coveted No. 1 spot in the ODI batting rankings, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
Rohit Sharma has ascended to the pinnacle of ODI batting rankings, following his impressive performances of 73 and an unbeaten 121 in the second and third matches of India`s recent series against Australia. Although India ultimately lost the series 2-1, Sharma`s individual brilliance shone brightly.
These two significant innings propelled Rohit from third place to the top, marking a career first for the veteran cricketer. Despite his long-standing presence within the top ten over the past decade, this achievement solidifies his status as a premier batsman. His century, in particular, was instrumental in accumulating critical ranking points, allowing him to surpass formidable opponents like Ibrahim Zadran and Shubman Gill.
Rohit wasn`t the only Indian cricketer to see a surge in rankings after the Australian ODI series. Axar Patel`s formidable all-round display also earned him considerable recognition. He secured a crucial wicket in each of the three ODIs and contributed effectively with the bat, scoring 31 and 44 runs in the initial two games. This elevated him six places to No. 31 in the bowlers` table and an impressive four spots to No. 8 among all-rounders, highlighting his growing influence.
Beyond the Indian contingent, other players also made notable advancements. Within the broader top ten, New Zealand`s Mitchell Santner climbed three positions to fourth after the first two ODIs against England. Meanwhile, Australia`s fast bowler Josh Hazlewood advanced two spots, securing the eighth position among bowlers.
Elsewhere in Test cricket, following the drawn two-Test series between Pakistan and South Africa, Keshav Maharaj achieved a career-best rating. He rose nine places to 13th in the bowlers` list, thanks to taking nine wickets in his single Test appearance. His teammate, Simon Harmer, also had a stellar series, taking 13 wickets across two Tests, which saw him move up 26 places to No. 45.
South African batsmen also saw improvements in the Test batting rankings. Aiden Markram moved up two spots to 15th, and Tony de Zorzi climbed seven places to a joint 47th, reflecting their strong contributions during the series.
