Shaheen Afridi claims top spot in ODI Rankings after stellar Australia series

LAHORE – Star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi has dethroned Keshav Maharaj to reclaim No. 1 ODI Bowler Ranking. Afridi’s impressive performance in historic 3-0 series win over Australia has propelled him to the top of the 50-over format’s rankings.

The 24-year-old got eight wickets in the series, with a remarkable average of 12.62, finishing as the second-highest wicket-taker behind fellow pacer Haris Rauf. His dominant display saw him leapfrog three places, overtaking South Africa’s Keshav Maharaj and reclaiming the No. 1 position.

This is the second time Afridi held coveted No. 1 ranking, having previously reached the top midway through the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup in 2023. The pace spearhead’s stellar performances have added to Pakistan’s growing dominance in world cricket.

Another Pakistani pacer Haris Rauf took 10 wickets in Australia series, and saw his ranking rise dramatically, moving up 14 places to 13th in the ICC Men’s ODI Bowler Rankings, his highest-ever position. Meanwhile, Naseem Shah also made significant progress, climbing 14 places to reach 55th overall.

The improvement of Pakistan’s pace trio ensured Men in Green’s position in both ODI batting and bowling rankings. Pakistan’s renowned batsman Babar Azam continues to dominate the ODI batter rankings, extending his lead with an unbeaten 80 runs against Australia.