According to the latest ICC update, released today (September 1), India have regained the No. 1 spot in the International Cricket Council One-Day International table following Zimbabwe’s three-wicket victory over Australia.
After India’s consecutive wins over England in the ongoing ODI series, India are once again the best ODI team in the world.
Following their defeat against Zimbabwe, Australia dropped three ratings points and were placed behind South Africa and Sri Lanka at fourth place. South Africa were in second spot following victories over Australia and Zimbabwe, while Sri Lanka were ranked just behind South Africa, leading Australia by just one point.
Now, to remain to at the top, India must beat England in the remaining two games, and hope Australia beat South Africa – either in their next group game in the triangular series in Zimbabwe or, if it happens, in the final of the tournament. South Africa, meanwhile, could claim the top spot if they win all their remaining matches in Zimbabwe. Interestingly, Australia might yet return to No. 1 if England win one of the two ODIs against India and Australia beat South Africa on Tuesday and then again in the final.
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ODI cricket is India’s strongest forte and they have been at the top of their game after the demoralizing defeat in the Test series. Regaining number 1 spot in the ODI rankings will lift Team India’s spirits and boost their morale before the all-important World Cup. MS Dhoni and co. would want to keep performing well and stay the top, as this will add more value to their existing tag of ‘defending champions.’
With only 3 rating points separating the top 4 teams, the ODI ranking table will see a lot of changes in the coming days as teams battle it out in preparation for the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup. India have 2 more matches to play against England, while Australia, South Africa and Zimbabwe clash in the remaining three matches of the tri-series.
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