In a surprising yet significant development in the world of cricket, Indian ODI captain Rohit Sharma has climbed to the No. 2 spot in the ICC batter rankings, overtaking Pakistan’s talisman Babar Azam. This remarkable achievement comes despite Rohit not having played an ODI since March, underscoring his enduring impact and consistency in the 50-over format. The shift in rankings, reported on August 13, 2025, by Cricket.com, highlights the dynamic nature of international cricket and the fine margins that define a player’s standing on the global stage.
Rohit Sharma’s Resilient Climb
At 38 years old, Rohit Sharma’s rise to No. 2 in the ICC ODI batter rankings is a testament to his remarkable career and unwavering consistency. The Indian captain, known for his elegant stroke play and ability to dominate bowling attacks, last featured in an ODI in March. Despite his absence from the format, Rohit’s stock has risen, largely due to the struggles of his closest rival, Babar Azam, during Pakistan’s tour of the West Indies.
Rohit’s ascent in the rankings is particularly noteworthy given the speculation surrounding his future in ODI cricket. With discussions about whether his international career might be nearing its end, this latest development serves as a reminder of his enduring class and relevance. His ability to maintain a top-tier ranking without recent game time speaks volumes about his past performances and the weight of his contributions to Indian cricket.
Rohit’s last ODI century came in a memorable performance, showcasing his trademark ability to construct big innings. His double centuries in the format—three of them, a world record—have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest ODI batters of all time. His current ranking reflects not just his individual brilliance but also the high standards he has set over the years, which continue to hold him in good stead even during periods of inactivity.
Babar Azam’s Struggles in the West Indies
Babar Azam, widely regarded as one of the finest batters of his generation, has experienced a rare dip in form, which has contributed to Rohit’s rise. During Pakistan’s recent three-match ODI series in the West Indies, Babar managed just 56 runs at a modest average of 18.66. This underwhelming performance stands in stark contrast to his usual consistency, which has seen him dominate the ICC rankings for extended periods.
Babar’s struggles are further highlighted by the fact that he has not scored an ODI century since the 2023 Asia Cup against Nepal. Over his last 29 ODI innings, he has averaged 36.07, a respectable figure but below the lofty standards he has set for himself. This lean patch has allowed Rohit to leapfrog him in the rankings, underscoring the competitive nature of international cricket, where even the best players can face temporary setbacks.
Babar’s dip in form does not diminish his stature as one of the game’s premier batters. His elegant cover drives, impeccable timing, and ability to anchor innings have made him a cornerstone of Pakistan’s batting lineup. However, his recent performances serve as a reminder that even the most consistent players can face challenges, and the ICC rankings are quick to reflect such fluctuations.
India’s Dominance in ODI Batting Rankings
Rohit Sharma’s rise is part of a broader narrative of India’s dominance in the ICC ODI batter rankings. Three Indian batters feature in the top four, with Shubman Gill holding the No. 1 spot and Virat Kohli securing the No. 4 position. Shreyas Iyer, at No. 8, further strengthens India’s presence in the top 10, highlighting the depth and quality of the country’s batting talent.
Shubman Gill’s ascent to the top of the rankings is a reflection of his rapid rise in international cricket. The young opener has combined elegance with aggression, establishing himself as a key figure in India’s ODI setup. Virat Kohli, a modern-day great, continues to hold a prominent position in the rankings, despite not being at his absolute peak in recent times. His consistency and ability to perform under pressure remain unmatched, making his presence in the top four unsurprising.
Shreyas Iyer’s place in the top 10 further underscores India’s batting prowess. Known for his ability to stabilize the middle order and accelerate when needed, Iyer has become a vital cog in India’s ODI machinery. The fact that four Indian batters feature in the top 10 is a testament to the team’s strength and the robust domestic system that continues to produce world-class talent.
T20I Rankings: India’s Continued Excellence
While the focus has been on ODI rankings, the T20I batter rankings also reflect India’s strong presence in world cricket. Abhishek Sharma remains the No. 1 T20I batter, a remarkable achievement for the young Indian star. His explosive batting and ability to dominate attacks have made him a standout performer in the shortest format.
Tilak Varma’s rise to the No. 2 spot is another positive development for Indian cricket. The left-hander’s aggressive approach and ability to adapt to different situations have seen him climb the rankings rapidly. India’s T20I captain, Suryakumar Yadav, holds the No. 6 position, further showcasing the country’s depth in T20 batting.
Outside of India, players like Phil Salt and Jos Buttler continue to feature prominently in the T20I rankings, with Salt overtaking Travis Head to claim the No. 3 spot. Head’s recent struggles against South Africa have seen him slip to No. 5, while Tim David’s explosive performances have propelled him six spots to break into the top 10. Cameron Green, another Australian, has also made significant gains, moving to No. 17.
The Significance of Rankings in Modern Cricket
The ICC rankings, while not the sole measure of a player’s ability, play a crucial role in shaping perceptions and narratives in modern cricket. For players like Rohit Sharma, maintaining a high ranking is a reflection of their consistency and impact over time. For others, like Babar Azam, a dip in the rankings serves as a temporary setback rather than a definitive judgment of their ability.
Rankings also provide a snapshot of the competitive landscape in international cricket. The rise of young players like Shubman Gill and Tilak Varma, alongside the continued excellence of veterans like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, highlights the blend of youth and experience that defines the modern game. The constant shuffling of positions in the rankings reflects the intensity of competition, where even a single series can significantly alter a player’s standing.
Rohit Sharma’s Legacy and Future
Rohit Sharma’s rise to No. 2 in the ICC ODI rankings is more than just a statistical achievement; it is a reflection of his enduring legacy in the game. As one of India’s most successful captains, Rohit has led the team to numerous victories, including in high-stakes tournaments. His ability to perform under pressure, whether as a batter or a leader, has made him a fan favorite and a respected figure in the cricketing world.
The speculation surrounding Rohit’s future in ODI cricket is understandable given his age and the emergence of younger talent. However, his recent rise in the rankings suggests that he still has much to offer. Whether he continues to play for India in the coming years or transitions into a mentorship role, Rohit’s contributions to the game will be remembered for generations.
For now, Rohit’s focus will likely be on maintaining his form and leading India in upcoming ODI assignments. With major tournaments on the horizon, including the 2027 ODI World Cup, Rohit’s experience and leadership will be invaluable. His ability to adapt to the evolving demands of the game while staying true to his natural style makes him a unique figure in modern cricket.
Babar Azam’s Path to Redemption
For Babar Azam, the dip in the ICC rankings is a temporary setback rather than a defining moment. As one of the most consistent batters in world cricket, Babar has the talent and temperament to bounce back. His ability to learn from challenges and adapt to different conditions will be crucial as he looks to regain his place at the top of the rankings.
Pakistan’s upcoming fixtures will provide Babar with an opportunity to rediscover his form. With a packed international calendar ahead, including bilateral series and major tournaments, Babar will be eager to silence his critics and add to his tally of ODI centuries. His rivalry with players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli adds an extra layer of intrigue to the cricketing landscape, making every series a must-watch event.
Looking Ahead
Rohit Sharma’s rise to No. 2 in the ICC ODI batter rankings, despite not playing since March, is a remarkable achievement that underscores his enduring brilliance. Babar Azam’s struggles in the West Indies have opened the door for Rohit to climb the rankings, but the Pakistani star remains a formidable force in world cricket. With India dominating the ODI and T20I rankings, the future looks bright for the team, with a blend of youth and experience driving their success.
As the cricketing world continues to evolve, the ICC rankings will remain a key barometer of individual and team performance. For Rohit Sharma, this latest milestone is a reminder of his greatness, while for Babar Azam, it is a challenge to reclaim his place at the top. The stage is set for more thrilling battles in the world of cricket, as these modern-day giants continue to shape the game’s narrative.
