Islamabad, Jan 8: The latest International Cricket Council (ICC) Test player rankings have highlighted impressive advancements by Pakistani cricketers. Babar Azam, the captain of Pakistan’s cricket team, stands out as he climbs five spots to reach the 12th position in the batting rankings. Along with Babar, several other Pakistani cricketers have made significant strides in the rankings.
Key Highlights:
-
Babar Azam Rise:
- Babar Azam consistent performance in both innings of the recent Test matches, including half-centuries, played a crucial role in his leap to 12th in the ICC Test batting rankings.
- His rise is a testament to his growing stature as one of the premier batsmen in world cricket.
-
Mohammad Rizwan Advancement:
- Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan has moved up two places to secure the 19th spot in the batting rankings.
- Rizwan’s steady performances continue to earn him recognition at the international level.
-
Shan Masood’s Impressive Climb:
- Shan Masood, Pakistan’s Test opener, made a remarkable leap of 12 places, now ranked 45th in the ICC Test rankings.
- This rise reflects his solid contributions and growing influence in the longest format of the game.
-
Salman Ali Agha’s Consistency:
- Salman Ali Agha has made a slight improvement, moving up one position to 22nd in the rankings, demonstrating his consistent performance with both bat and ball.
- Other Rankings in Focus:
- Batting Rankings: England’s Joe Root continues to dominate the rankings, holding the top position. He is followed by Harry Brook of England in second and New Zealand’s Kane Williamson in third.
- Bowling Rankings: India’s Jasprit Bumrah maintains his position as the number-one bowler in the ICC Test rankings. Australia’s Pat Cummins and South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada have each moved up one spot, now ranked second and third, respectively.
- Scott Boland’s Remarkable Rise: Australia’s Scott Boland made an extraordinary leap, jumping 29 places to break into the top 10 bowlers, now ranked 10th.
- All-rounders’ Rankings: Ravindra Jadeja of India continues to dominate the all-rounders’ category, retaining the top position.
