Shaheen Afridi Takes Top Spot In ICC ODI Bowler Rankings, Babar Azam Remains At No 1 Among Batters

Just months before the start of next year's ICC Champions Trophy, Pakistan's pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi has reclaimed the Number 1 ranking after the ICC issued the latest Men's ODI Bowler Rankings. The left-arm quick regained his place as the top bowler in the 50-over format on the back of his impressive displays during Pakistan's historic series triumph over Australia. During the three ODIs, Shaheen took eight scalps, averaging 12.62 and ended the series as the second-highest wicket-taker.

Shaheen leapfrogged three places to establish his position at the top of the summit. He dethroned South Africa's seasoned spinner Keshav Maharaj, while Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan held his second spot.

Shaheen first held the number one spot in the bowler ranking midway through last year's ICC Men's ODI World Cup in India.

Shaheen's accomplice, Haris Rauf, improved 14 places to 13th overall. He landed a new career-high rating following his 10 wickets and Player of the Series heroics against Australia.

The duo's compatriot Naseem Shah also found a new career-best spot after he improved 14 rungs to equal 55th position.

Shaheen's recent surge has ensured that Pakistan has the top-ranked player in both batting and bowling in ODI cricket.

Former skipper Babar Azam extended his lead at the top of the batter charts on the back of his 80 runs against Australia. He was dismissed just once across the three ODIs.

Pakistan's newly crowned skipper Mohammad Rizwan progressed two places to equal 23rd position in the list for ODI batters following his 74 runs in Australia in the three-match series.

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto moved 11 places to equal 23rd, and Afghanistan all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai also made gains to equal 31st