In a remarkable achievement, Indian opener Shubman Gill has ascended to the top of the ICC ODI batting rankings, dethroning Pakistan's Babar Azam from the No. 1 spot. This is the second time Gill has surpassed Babar to claim the numero uno position in the ODI rankings, reaffirming his status as one of the most consistent and dominant batters in the format.
Gill's Stellar Performance Against England
Gill's rise to the top comes on the back of a sensational performance in the three-match ODI series against England. The 24-year-old amassed 259 runs at an impressive average of 86.33 and a strike rate of 103.6, including two fifties and a century. His century in the series finale at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad was a standout knock, further solidifying his reputation as a big-match player.
Key Highlights of Gill's Series
- 1st ODI: Scored 87 runs.
- 2nd ODI: Notched up 60 runs.
- 3rd ODI: Smashed a scintillating century at his favorite venue, Ahmedabad.
ICC ODI Rankings Update
With his stellar performances, Gill has taken his rating points to 796, surpassing Babar Azam, who is now in second place with 773 points. This marks the second time Gill has overtaken Babar in the ODI rankings, with the first instance occurring during the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Babar Azam's Dip in Form
Babar Azam, who had held the No. 1 spot for a significant period, saw a dip in his form during the recent tri-series against New Zealand and South Africa. The former Pakistan skipper managed only 62 runs in three matches, resulting in a drop in his rating points.
Indian Dominance in the Rankings
Indian captain Rohit Sharma is currently placed at No. 3 in the rankings, just 45 points behind Gill. Rohit had a mixed series against England, scoring a century in the second ODI in Cuttack but falling cheaply in the series finale.
What’s Next for Gill and Babar?
The battle for the No. 1 spot is far from over, as Babar Azam will have an opportunity to reclaim his position during the upcoming Champions Trophy, set to begin on February 19. Meanwhile, Gill will aim to maintain his form and continue delivering match-winning performances for India.
Gill's Importance for India
Gill's ability to adapt to different roles in the batting lineup—whether opening the innings or batting at No. 3—has made him a vital asset for India in ODIs. His consistency and ability to perform under pressure will be crucial for India's success in future tournaments, including the Champions Trophy.
Conclusion
Shubman Gill's rise to the top of the ICC ODI rankings is a testament to his hard work, talent, and consistency. As he continues to shine on the international stage, cricket fans can look forward to more thrilling performances from the young Indian opener. Meanwhile, the competition between Gill and Babar Azam promises to keep the ODI rankings race exciting in the coming months.
