India has surged to the summit of the ICC ODI rankings, displacing Pakistan, following their impressive five-wicket triumph over Australia in the first ODI of a three-match series held in Mohali on Friday. This victory propelled India (116 rating points) ahead of their arch-rivals Pakistan (115) in the rankings, marking a significant shift in their positions. Australia, while remaining in third place, has seen the gap between the top two teams widen, as they have dropped two points, leaving them with a rating of 111.
India clinched a comfortable five-wicket win against Australia in the first ODI, paving the way for their ascent to the top of the rankings. The standout performance in their bowling innings came from Mohammed Shami, who claimed five crucial wickets. Stand-in captain KL Rahul's decision to field first proved fruitful. In response, Shubman Gill and Ruturaj Gaikwad both reached half-centuries, forging an impressive 142-run partnership as openers. Despite facing some setbacks, fifties from Rahul and Surykumar Yadav stabilized the innings and steered the hosts to victory.
The recent ODI Team Rankings have witnessed intense competition among India, Pakistan, and Australia, with each team vying for the top position. This competition unfolded during the Asia Cup and Australia's ODI series against South Africa. To secure the No.1 ranking in the lead-up to the ODI World Cup, India must win the three-match ODI series against Australia with a 2-1 margin. Pakistan's loss to Sri Lanka in the final Super Fours match of the Asia Cup 2023 dealt a significant blow to their prospects of retaining the top spot in the ODI rankings.
Following their defeat, Australia's chances of claiming the No.1 position heading into the World Cup have been dashed. Nevertheless, Pakistan could still ascend to the top if Australia emerges victorious in the remaining two matches. India currently holds a commanding position, and a series victory will guarantee them the No.1 ranking as they prepare for the prestigious event on home soil. India's dominance now extends across all formats, as they already occupy the No.1 spot in Tests and T20Is. This marks only the second occasion in men's cricket history that a team has achieved the No.1 ranking across all formats, with South Africa being the sole previous achiever of this feat in August 2012.
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