The reshuffling of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s One Day International (ODI) batting rankings, India’s vice-captain Shubman Gill has overtaken Pakistan’s Babar Azam to claim the top position. This change comes just ahead of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, adding an intriguing subplot to the upcoming tournament.
Gill’s ascent to the No. 1 spot is a testament to his consistent and impressive performances on the field. The 25-year-old opener showcased exceptional form during the recent home series against England, where he amassed two half-centuries and a century. His standout performance came in the third ODI in Ahmedabad, where he scored a commanding 112 off 102 balls. These contributions have elevated his rating to 796 points, placing him 23 points ahead of Babar Azam, who now holds the second position with 773 points.
This isn’t the first time Gill has reached the pinnacle of ODI batting rankings. He previously claimed the No. 1 spot during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2023, showcasing his ability to perform consistently at the highest level. His recent performances have solidified his reputation as one of the premier batsmen in international cricket.
Babar Azam, who had maintained the top position for a considerable duration, now finds himself in the second spot. The Pakistani skipper has been a cornerstone of his team’s batting lineup, and this recent shift in rankings is expected to fuel a competitive spirit as both players prepare for the Champions Trophy.
The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 is set to commence on February 19, with matches being held in Pakistan and Dubai. The tournament features the top eight ODI teams, divided into two groups. Group A comprises Bangladesh, India, New Zealand, and Pakistan, while Group B includes Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa. India’s matches are scheduled to take place in Dubai due to security considerations.
India’s batting lineup appears formidable, with multiple players featuring prominently in the ICC rankings. Captain Rohit Sharma holds the third position with 761 rating points, while veteran batsman Virat Kohli is in sixth place with 728 points. Additionally, Shreyas Iyer has climbed to the ninth spot, reflecting the depth and strength of India’s batting arsenal.
In the bowling department, there have been notable changes as well. Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana has ascended to the No. 1 spot in the ODI bowling rankings, surpassing Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan. Theekshana’s impressive performances, including a four-wicket haul against Australia in Colombo, have earned him 680 rating points. Despite Sri Lanka not participating in the Champions Trophy, Theekshana’s rise underscores his impact in the ODI format.
As the Champions Trophy approaches, all eyes will be on the leading performers. Shubman Gill’s recent surge in form positions him as a key player for India, while Babar Azam will be eager to reclaim his top spot and lead Pakistan to success on home soil. The tournament promises to be a thrilling showcase of cricketing talent, with the world’s best players competing for supremacy.
The dynamic between Gill and Azam adds an extra layer of excitement to the event. Both players have demonstrated exceptional skill and consistency, and their performances could be pivotal in determining their respective teams’ fortunes. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide will be keenly observing how these batting maestros navigate the challenges posed by top-tier bowlers in high-stakes matches.
In summary, Shubman Gill’s rise to the No. 1 position in the ICC ODI batting rankings marks a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. As the Champions Trophy unfolds, the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the performances of these elite athletes, with expectations of riveting contests and outstanding displays of sportsmanship.
