Despite bulldozing South Africa by seven wickets in the final Test in Cape Town to level two-match series 1-1, Rohit Sharma's India were dethroned from the no.1 position in the ICC Test rankings by Australia on January 5, Friday. Australia's remarkable performance, gaining a commanding 2-0 lead in their ongoing three-match home series against Pakistan, has propelled them higher in the rankings. The final match of this series is currently in progress in Sydney and Australia are well on their way to land a clean sweep on the battered Pakistan.
“Australia’s impressive run at home against Pakistan helped them take the crown of the No. 1 Test team once again, having last held the spot briefly following their WTC Final victory,” the ICC stated in a release.
Meanwhile, England, South Africa and New Zealand hold the third, fourth and fifth spots respectively in the latest ICC's Test rankings. On the other hand, Pakistan are placed sixth in the standings followed by Sri Lanka in seventh.
As per the last update, India held a greater number of points despite being level with Australia at 118 rating points apiece. However, the series draw in South Africa resulted in India being overtaken by Australia in the rankings.
“With India drawing their the two-Test series against South Africa 1-1 and Australia recording two wins in as many matches against Pakistan, the Pat Cummins-led side now top the Test rankings,” the ICC said.
“It's the latest feat in a year full of them for Australia, alongside their ICC World Test Championship Final victory and their ICC Men's Cricket World Cup triumph," ICC's statement added.
Following their victory at Newlands, India currently lead the World Test Championship points table, boasting a 54.16 per cent points ratio from four Tests, which consists of two wins, one loss, and a draw. Meanwhile, South Africa occupy the second spot, with New Zealand in third and Australia in fourth place, each holding 50 per cent points in the WTC standings.
“The ongoing third Test between Australia and Pakistan and the upcoming five-match Test series between India and England will likely lead to further activity in the Test Team Rankings, with the top spot on the line alongside crucial ICC World Test Championship points,” the ICC added.
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