Afghanistan has advanced in the ICC men’s ODI team rankings, overtaking England following their triumph in the recent tri-series. The victory was secured on Friday, October 23, against Zimbabwe in Sharjah, where Afghanistan showcased a disciplined performance with the ball. Zimbabwe was bowled out for a total of 169 runs, unable to withstand the Afghan bowling attack.

Rashid Khan was pivotal in Afghanistan’s bowling success, taking three wickets, while Fazalhaq Farooqi, Mohammad Nabi, and Bilal Sami each contributed with two wickets. This collective effort ensured that Zimbabwe could not build any significant partnerships, leading to their early dismissal. In response, Afghanistan chased down the target with ease, reaching 170 runs in just 35 overs.

Ibrahim Zadran played a crucial role in this victory, scoring an unbeaten 70 runs off 96 balls, which included four boundaries and a six. His innings was marked by composure and strategic partnerships, first with Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who scored 36 runs, establishing a solid 68-run opening partnership.

Zadran then combined with captain Rahmat Shah, who contributed 43 runs, for an impressive 82-run partnership. Zadran’s performance not only secured the win but also earned him the Player of the Match award, while Rashid Khan was recognised as Player of the Series for his outstanding contribution throughout the tournament.

Impact on ICC ODI Rankings

The victory in the tri-series significantly improved Afghanistan’s position in the ICC ODI rankings. They gained two rating points, moving from eighth to seventh place. This shift pushed England down to eighth position, following their recent defeats against Pakistan and Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi.

As a result of these developments, Sri Lanka has risen to sixth place in the rankings, taking advantage of England’s struggles. Zimbabwe, despite losing the final, also gained two rating points and maintained their position at 11th in the rankings. Meanwhile, Bangladesh faced a disappointing tournament, failing to secure any victories and losing two points, yet they managed to remain in ninth place.

The updated ICC ODI rankings reflect the current standings of various teams, with India leading the table, followed closely by New Zealand and South Africa. Afghanistan’s rise is a testament to their improving performance on the international stage, while England’s recent form has raised questions about their competitive edge.

Current ICC ODI Rankings Overview

The latest ICC ODI rankings are as follows: India holds the top position with 36 matches played, accumulating 4122 points and a rating of 115. New Zealand follows closely with 35 matches, 3809 points, and a rating of 109. South Africa is third with 34 matches, 3547 points, and a rating of 104, while Pakistan is fourth with 34 matches, 3505 points, and a rating of 103.

Australia ranks fifth with 35 matches, 3568 points, and a rating of 102. Sri Lanka, now sixth, has played 41 matches, earning 3896 points and a rating of 95. Afghanistan’s recent performance places them seventh with 31 matches, 2926 points, and a rating of 94. England, having dropped to eighth, has played 36 matches, securing 3331 points and a rating of 93.

Bangladesh remains in ninth place with 41 matches, 3304 points, and a rating of 81, while the West Indies occupy the tenth position with 37 matches, 2924 points, and a rating of 79. These rankings highlight the competitive nature of international cricket and the ongoing shifts in team performances.

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