For the first time in the history of ICC ODI player rankings, Pakistan’s cricket team achieved the remarkable feat of securing the top position in two key categories – batting and bowling.
This exciting news was revealed in the latest rankings issued by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Wednesday. The star performer behind this historic achievement was none other than Shaheen Shah Afridi, who has been delivering sensational performances for Pakistan at the Cricket World Cup.
Shaheen Shah Afridi’s remarkable rise in the ODI bowling rankings saw him jump an impressive nine places to claim the coveted top spot. This is a testament to his outstanding bowling skills and consistent performances.
On the batting front, Pakistan’s skipper, Babar Azam, managed to maintain his narrow lead at the head of the corresponding batting list, solidifying his status as one of the world’s premier ODI batsmen.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) celebrated this incredible accomplishment in a post on social media, proudly proclaiming, “With @babarazam258 the No.1 batter, this is the first time since ICC ODI Player rankings were introduced that a Pakistan batter and bowler top the ODI rankings.”
It is indeed a historic mom for Pakistan cricket and a testament to the exceptional talent and hard work of these two players.
A day before this announcement, Shaheen Shah Afridi had further etched his name in the tournament’s history by becoming the joint-leading wicket-taker alongside Australia’s spinner, Adam Zampa. Both of them had taken an impressive 16 wickets each during the Cricket World Cup, showcasing their prowess as match-winners for their respective teams.
Afridi’s accomplishments didn’t stop there; he also earned the distinction of becoming the fastest pacer to reach the milestone of 100 ODI wickets, achieving this remarkable feat in just 51 innings. This record-breaking achievement underscores his exceptional talent and the promising future he holds in the world of cricket.
Pakistan’s rise to the top of both the ODI batting and bowling rankings is a historic moment for the country’s cricketing legacy. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Babar Azam have showcased their prowess on the world stage, and their achievements are a source of pride for the nation and its cricketing enthusiasts.
