DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has released its latest One Day International (ODI) player rankings, with several top international and Pakistani cricketers featuring prominently across both batting and bowling categories.
In the batting rankings, New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell continues to hold the number one position, maintaining his strong run of form at the top of the ODI chart. India’s Virat Kohli is ranked second, further cementing his place among the leading batters in international cricket.
The former captain of Pakistan’s national cricket team, Babar Azam, still ranks in the sixth position in the batting ranking list.
As far as bowling is concerned, Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan still holds on to his first position in the ODI bowling rankings list.
Second in the bowling rankings is Pakistan’s spin master Abrar Ahmed, who has done remarkably well recently.
Shaheen Shah Afridi, who is a fast bowler, has improved his ranking position by one and is now at the ninth position on the ODI bowling ranking list.
ICC Approves Major Changes to Cricket Rules
Earlier, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved changes to the rules of cricket during a recent board meeting, officials confirmed.
The decisions were made during the ICC Board meeting held in Ahmedabad, India, covering updates to cricket laws, women’s cricket and issues related to Cricket Canada.
Under the new regulations, a pink ball can now be used in Test matches in conditions of poor lighting. For illegal bowling actions, Hawk-Eye technology will be employed. Additionally, coaches will be allowed to enter the field during water breaks in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) to consult with players.
The board also decided to reduce innings breaks in T20 matches from 20 minutes to 15 minutes, while the trial law allowing league-style wide deliveries has been permanently adopted.
In a separate decision, the ICC suspended Canada’s membership in the ICC, although Canadian teams will continue to participate in international competitions.
Regarding women’s cricket, the Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 has been rescheduled to take place from 14 to 28 February, instead of the previously planned June–July window.
