ODI rankings: In the recent surge of cricketing events, Shubman Gill, Team India’s prodigious opening batsman, has been grabbing headlines. Following an outstanding performance in Asia Cup 2023, Gill’s ascent in the ODI rankings has been meteoric, nudging him tantalizingly close to the coveted number one spot currently held by Pakistan’s Babar Azam.
Gill’s Asia Cup Brilliance:
The Asia Cup 2023 saw Gill demonstrating exceptional form. Amassing a whopping 302 runs in the 6 innings of the 6 matches he played, Gill maintained a remarkable average of 75.50. His stellar performance was punctuated with a century, two half-centuries, 35 boundaries, and 6 sixes. This display of cricketing prowess translated into a significant leap in the ICC ODI rankings for the young batsman.
Climbing the Ranking Ladder:
ODI rankings: Post the Asia Cup 2023, the recent ICC rankings positioned Shubman Gill at a commendable second place with an 814 rating. Notably, this is Gill’s career-best ranking, signaling the promising trajectory of this young talent. Gill’s ascendancy brings with it the potential to dislodge Pakistan’s Babar Azam from his reigning number one spot.
The Babar Azam Equation:
Currently, Babar Azam enjoys the zenith of the ICC ODI rankings with 857 ratings. However, given Gill’s current momentum, this leadership seems increasingly threatened. A splendid performance in the forthcoming ODI series against Australia could very well witness Gill eclipsing Azam, thereby securing the title of the ICC’s number one ODI batsman.
Australia Series Awaits:
The excitement is palpable as the ODI series against Australia is slated to begin in India from 22nd September. Some stalwarts like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and Kuldeep Yadav are being rested for the initial matches, making it an opportune moment for Gill to further make his mark.
Other Rankings:
Beyond Gill, in the batting realm, Virat Kohli has been positioned eighth with a 708 rating. On the bowling front, Mohammad Siraj has earned accolades by securing the top spot in the ICC ODI bowler rankings, boasting a 694 rating.
In the cricketing circles, Shubman Gill’s rapid rise and the impending showdown with Babar Azam have become a focal point of discussion. The upcoming series will not only be a test of Gill’s consistency but also a defining moment in the battle for the number one spot.