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The mighty India scripted history as they have solidified their place at the pinnacle of the game, achieving the No.1 rank in the Men's ODI Team Rankings following convincing five-wicket win against Australia on Friday, September 22. This impressive ascent comes right before the highly anticipated ICC Men's ODI World Cup 2023 set to be hosted in India.
With a commanding 116 rating points, India edged out its fierce competitor, Pakistan, which stands at 115 points. Meanwhile, Australia hold the third position with 111 points, a slight dip following their recent match outcomes.
The first ODI victory against Australia in the series opener in Mohali was a testament to India's mettle. Under the leadership of KL Rahul, the team showcased an all-round performance. The bowling maestro, Mohammed Shami, turned heads with his stellar five-wicket innings, setting the stage for the batters. Responding to Australia's challenge, openers Shubman Gill and Ruturaj Gaikwad crafted a formidable 142-run partnership, both achieving half-centuries. Ensuring stability in the middle order, KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav each chipped in with fifties, steering India to a commendable five-wicket triumph.
The race to the apex of the ODI Team Rankings has been a riveting one. The Asia Cup and Australia's ODI series against South Africa saw India, Pakistan, and Australia battling neck and neck for supremacy. Despite their absence in the Asia Cup Final, Pakistan clung to their No.1 spot. Both India and Australia had their eyes on the prize during these tournaments but faced setbacks at crucial junctures.
Now, with the World Cup around the corner, Australia has been sidelined from the contention for the No.1 spot. Yet, Pakistan remains in the fray, poised to reclaim the top position if they capitalize on Australia's performance in the upcoming matches.
India's ascendancy is not limited to ODIs alone. The team has showcased unparalleled dominance, holding the No.1 position in both Tests and T20Is. This monumental achievement draws a parallel with South Africa, the only other team to have clinched the top spot across all formats back in 2012.
In Test matches, India's consistency stands out. Their journey to the World Test Championship Final in June demonstrates their prowess, even though the ultimate victory eluded them. Apart from a solitary series loss against South Africa in 2021-22, India's performance has been near impeccable.
The T20 arena witnessed India's resilience too. Their journey to the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-finals speaks volumes. Moreover, post the 2021 T20 World Cup edition, India's record is formidable, with just one series loss out of 14.
All eyes are now on the upcoming ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023. With India demonstrating form and skill across formats, fans and pundits alike are keen to see if they can translate this momentum into lifting the coveted trophy on home soil.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
IND vs AUS: Shami's fifer chokes Australia before Gill-Gaikwad-Surya-KL quartet's fifties help India become World no.1
Ruturaj Gaikwad showcases full repertoire of shots in stylish maiden half-century in Mohali ODI against Australia
Shubman Gill's stellar 2023 run continues, surpasses 1,100 ODI runs with attractive knock against Australia
