New Delh: India’s ascent in the cricketing world continues as they reach the second spot in the ICC ODI rankings, with the World Cup on the horizon. Pakistan, who previously held the top position, have been dethroned after their elimination from the Asia Cup.
The leadership of Babar Azam’s team has faced a dramatic downfall, sliding two spots to occupy the third position with 115 points in the ICC’s mid-week assessment. This comes on the heels of Pakistan’s consecutive losses in the “Super Four,” notably a last-ball thriller against Sri Lanka.
The race for the top spot has intensified ahead of the impending World Cup, with Australia now holding a slender two-point lead over India, registering 116 points. India and Australia are poised to engage in a crucial three-match ODI series on Indian soil, commencing on September 22, before the World Cup opener in Chennai on October 8.
Australia, buoyed by back-to-back victories in South Africa, have surged to the top position, but their recent 111-run defeat in the third ODI against India leaves the competition wide open. The series is set for a thrilling conclusion this Sunday, with the penultimate ODI between South Africa and Australia scheduled for this Friday.
Cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate India’s clash with co-hosts Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup final this Sunday.
This development underscores India’s remarkable cricketing prowess, as they aim to claim the top spot and bolster their World Cup preparations.
(With inputs from PTI)
