The ICC has released its latest player rankings, marking a significant shift in the ODI batting chart. Daryl Mitchell of New Zealand has climbed to the number one spot, ending Virat Kohli’s reign, while other top players like Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam maintained strong positions.
New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell has risen to the top of the ICC ODI batting rankings after an inspiring performance in recent matches. The 34-year-old’s consistent form, including his ninth ODI century, helped him surpass India’s Virat Kohli, who now sits in second place.
Afghanistan’s Ibrahim Zadran claimed third place, followed by India’s Rohit Sharma in fourth. Pakistan’s Babar Azam retained his sixth position, maintaining his spot among the world’s elite ODI batsmen.
Milestone performances Behind Mitchell’s rise
Mitchell’s climb to the summit is marked by remarkable achievements. In his 54th ODI innings, he became the fourth-fastest male cricketer to score nine international hundreds, joining ranks with Imam-ul-Haq, Hashim Amla, and Quinton de Kock.
His performance was pivotal in New Zealand’s series against India, especially during the decider in Indore, where his innings helped stabilize the team amid high-pressure moments, including standing firm at long-on to take a crucial catch off Kohli.
Other notable ICC ranking changes
The latest ICC rankings also saw significant movement in T20 cricket. Varun Chakraborty claimed the top spot in T20 bowlers, while Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan moved up to second. Pakistan’s spinner Abrar Ahmed retained fifth place.
In T20 batting, Abhishek Sharma climbed to 16th, and Sahibzada Farhan retained fifth. Pakistani players Mohammad Rizwan and Fakhar Zaman also moved up in rankings, reaching 23rd and 27th, respectively.
Mitchell’s rise signals a new era in ODI cricket, showcasing New Zealand’s growing dominance and highlighting emerging talents from Afghanistan and Pakistan. Kohli, while no longer number one, remains a formidable force and will aim to reclaim the top spot.
As players continue to perform at the international level, upcoming series and tournaments could see further shifts in ICC rankings, keeping fans and analysts eagerly watching.
