The cricketing world witnessed a significant shake-up in the ICC Men’s Player Rankings as two exceptional players ascended to the coveted No.1 spots in their respective categories. With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 just around the corner, India’s Shubman Gill and Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana have claimed the top positions in the Men’s ODI Batting and Bowling Rankings, respectively. These achievements have set the stage for thrilling performances during the highly anticipated tournament in Pakistan and Dubai.
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Shubman Gill Claims No.1 ODI Batter Spot
India’s dynamic right-hander, Shubman Gill, has dethroned Pakistan’s former captain Babar Azam to become the top-ranked ODI batter in the world. Gill’s remarkable consistency and recent performances have been pivotal in his ascent. His stunning century against England in Ahmedabad during the third ODI of their recent series helped propel him to the summit of the rankings.
This is the second time the 25-year-old has secured the No.1 position, having previously overtaken Babar Azam during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. Gill’s exceptional form has not only bolstered his career but has also strengthened India’s batting lineup as they aim for Champions Trophy glory.
Updated Men’s ODI Batter Rankings
- Shubman Gill (India) – No.1
- Babar Azam (Pakistan) – No.2 (23 points behind Gill)
- Rohit Sharma (India) – No.3
Other notable movements include New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell rising two spots to fifth and Sri Lanka’s Charith Asalanka climbing eight places to secure the eighth position. Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan has also achieved a career-best 15th spot, thanks to his consistent performances in the recent Tri-Nation series.
Further down the list, New Zealand’s Devon Conway and Glenn Phillips have climbed to 35th and 41st, respectively, while Pakistan’s Salman Agha leaped 24 places to claim the 48th spot following impressive outings in recent matches.
Maheesh Theekshana Crowned No.1 ODI Bowler
On the bowling front, Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana has emerged as the top-ranked ODI bowler, displacing Afghanistan’s spin maestro Rashid Khan. Theekshana’s exceptional performances against Australia on home soil, including a four-wicket haul in the opening match of the Colombo series, earned him the No.1 spot for the first time in his career.
While Sri Lanka will not participate in the Champions Trophy, Theekshana’s rise to the top reflects his consistent excellence. Meanwhile, Rashid Khan, now in second place, trails Theekshana by just 11 points and will be eager to reclaim his position during the upcoming tournament.
Updated Men’s ODI Bowler Rankings
- Maheesh Theekshana (Sri Lanka) – No.1
- Rashid Khan (Afghanistan) – No.2
- Kuldeep Yadav (India) – No.4 (up one place)
Other spinners making strides include South Africa’s Keshav Maharaj, who re-entered the rankings in sixth place, and New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner, who jumped four spots to claim seventh. These bowlers’ form will be crucial as their teams aim to make an impact in the Champions Trophy.
All-Rounders Maintain Momentum
In the Men’s ODI All-Rounder Rankings, Afghanistan veteran Mohammad Nabi continues to dominate the charts. New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner has also gained one place, moving up to sixth overall, further solidifying his reputation as a valuable all-rounder in the format.
Implications for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The recent shifts in rankings have added an intriguing subplot to the Champions Trophy, which will feature eight top teams competing for the prestigious title. With Shubman Gill leading the batting charts and Kuldeep Yadav climbing the bowling rankings, India enters the tournament as a strong contender. Similarly, Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan will aim to reclaim his dominance, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition.
As the cricketing world turns its attention to Pakistan and Dubai, the performances of these top-ranked players will undoubtedly shape the narrative of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Fans can expect thrilling encounters, standout performances, and fierce competition as the battle for supremacy unfolds.
