rashid-khan-dethrones-shaheen-afridi-as-odi-bowling-king

The ICC menโ€™s ODI bowling rankings have a new leader, and itโ€™s none other than Afghanistanโ€™s star leg-spinner, Rashid Khan. On Wednesday, Rashid snatched the top spot from Pakistanโ€™s pace maestro, Shaheen Shah Afridi, in the latest rankings update.

Shaheen Afridi Takes a Backseat

Shaheenโ€™s rise to the top earlier this year was nothing short of spectacular. His eight wickets at an average of 12.62 during Pakistanโ€™s historic series win over Australia cemented his status as one of the best in the game.

Read More: Why Pakistanโ€™s Youngsters Struggle Internationally Compared to India?

But with Shaheen Afridi resting during the ongoing ODI series against Zimbabwe, the rankings shift was inevitable. His teammate Haris Rauf, who dazzled during the Australia series and was named Player of the Series, also faced a dip, slipping two places to 15th.

Saim Ayub’s Meteoric Rise

On a brighter note for Pakistan fans, young opener Saim Ayubโ€™s brilliant century in the second ODI against Zimbabwe earned him an 80-place leap in the batting rankings. He now sits at 90th, while the ever-consistent Babar Azam continues to dominate as the worldโ€™s top-ranked ODI batter.

Saimโ€™s rise is a testament to the fresh talent coming through Pakistanโ€™s ranks. His fearless approach at the crease has already won him fans, and his future looks bright.

Jasprit Bumrah Shines in Tests

While the ODI rankings saw drama, Jasprit Bumrah made headlines in the Test arena. The Indian pacer reclaimed the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test bowling rankings after his stellar performance against Australia in Perth. Bumrahโ€™s match figures of 8/72 powered India to a crushing 295-run win and earned him a career-high 883 rating points.

Read More: What Are Indiaโ€™s Chances Of Reaching WTC Final After Defeating Australia?

Bumrahโ€™s consistency this year has been remarkable. This is the third time he has topped the Test rankings in 2024, showing just how vital he is to Indiaโ€™s success.

Indiaโ€™s batters also had their moments of glory. Yashasvi Jaiswal, with his incredible consistency, jumped to a career-best second position in Test batting rankings. He now trails only Englandโ€™s Joe Root. Virat Kohliโ€™s recent heroics also saw him climb nine places to 13th, proving that King Kohli still has plenty left in the tank.

Stay tuned to Brandsynarioย for the latest news and updates.