India to Replace South Africa As Top-Ranked ODI Side

India will go to top spot when the ICC ODI rankings are updated at the conclusion of the on-going six-match series against South Africa. Both India and South Africa will have 120 points but the Virat Kohli-captained side would edge on decimal points. The side assured themselves of the feat after a comprehensive win over South Africa at Centurion on Sunday.

The maths before start of the series suggested India could go top with a 4-2 series win or better; South Africa needed to win the series comprehensively or at least draw the series. But the current complexion of the series plays into India’s hands to add the ODI top ranking to the Test mace. At the same time, India have a chance to go top in the T20 rankings too – should a comprehesive win follow in the shortest format.

In the ODI team rankings, World champions Australia meanwhile, had dropped two places to fifth, while ICC Champions Trophy winners Pakistan are expected to drop to sixth following an action-packed January of white ball cricket, which saw 17 ODIs being played between seven sides in Australia, Bangladesh and New Zealand.

With Australia slipping in the rankings owing to a 4-1 spanking by England, the Eoin Morgan captained side have been rewarded with a jump to third place. Also making merry are New Zealand who had a strong showing at home to West Indies followed by Pakistan.

Courtesy : indianexpress