Salman Agha’s career-best rating sparks Pakistan’s surge in ICC ODI rankings

Pakistan have continued their strong run in one-day cricket, following up their home success over South Africa with another impressive performance against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi. The narrow win was built on fine contributions from Salman Agha and Hussain Talat, with both players earning big jumps in the latest ICC Men’s ODI Rankings.

Salman Agha’s career-best rating

Salman Agha produced a match-winning knock of 105 off 87 balls, anchoring Pakistan’s innings and showcasing his ability to dominate in the middle overs. His superb form has seen him climb 14 places to 16th in the ICC ODI Batting Rankings, reaching a career-best 639 rating points. Salman’s rise highlights his growing importance in Pakistan’s middle order, especially with the team focusing on stability ahead of next year’s Champions Trophy.

Saim Ayub continues steady rise

Although Saim Ayub couldn’t replicate his recent form against Sri Lanka, his back-to-back half-centuries in the series win over South Africa last week have lifted him 18 spots to joint 35th in the rankings. The young opener’s consistency and aggressive intent have given Pakistan a new dynamic at the top of the order.

Haris Rauf impresses on return

On the bowling front, Haris Rauf made an immediate impact. Playing just his second international since the Asia Cup Final, the speedster claimed four wickets against Sri Lanka and climbed three places to 28th in the ICC ODI Bowling Rankings.

Abrar Ahmed’s ranking surge

Leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed also enjoyed a major boost despite not featuring in the latest game. His standout performance in the series decider against South Africa, where he returned career-best figures of 4 for 27, helped him move up 17 spots in the rankings. Abrar’s control and variations have earned him recognition as one of the most promising spin prospects in Pakistan cricket.

Rohit Sharma and Rashid Khan lead the rankings

While Pakistan’s players made impressive gains, India captain Rohit Sharma remains the number one ranked ODI batter with 781 rating points. Among bowlers, Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan continues to hold the top spot with 710 points.

Pakistan’s blend of young talent and experienced performers is beginning to show results, and the latest ICC rankings reflect a team growing in confidence and depth across formats.