How Did Brook Rise to No. 2 in Test Rankings While Starc Closes in on Bumrah?
Synopsis
In a thrilling update from the world of cricket, Harry Brook's remarkable performance at the MCG has catapulted him to the second spot in the ICC Test Rankings, while Mitchell Starc inches closer to Jasprit Bumrah's top position. As the Ashes series progresses, both players are poised for a fierce competition ahead of the final match.
Key Takeaways
Harry Brook rises to No.
2 in ICC Test Rankings.
Mitchell Starc closes in on Jasprit Bumrah ’s No.
Joshua Tongue climbs to 30th position after a strong performance.
Australia maintains the top position in the World Test Championship .
Intense competition expected in the final Ashes Test.
Dubai, December 31 (NationPress) Harry Brook's impressive performance at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has transformed the Test Rankings. The England batter has ascended three spots to secure the second position in the most recent ICC rankings. Meanwhile, Mitchell Starc has drawn nearer to the top rank held by India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah after delivering an outstanding bowling performance throughout the series.
Brook, who accumulated a total of 59 runs in a low-scoring encounter, now stands at second place, surpassing notable players like Australia's Steve Smith and Travis Head, along with New Zealand's Kane Williamson. He is currently positioned just behind his fellow countryman Joe Root, who leads with 867 rating points.
In the rankings, England's fast bowler Joshua Tongue has also been acknowledged for his exceptional performance in the fourth Test of the ongoing Ashes series at the MCG.
Tongue turned the match around for England with his career-best figures of 5-45 and 2-44, climbing 13 places to reach 30th position. His teammates Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse have also made gains, moving up to 13th and 23rd respectively after England's four-wicket victory in the fourth Test.
Despite Australia's struggles with the bat affecting their players' ratings, the bowlers received some positive news, with Starc and Scott Boland achieving career-best rankings.
Starc has now surpassed Australia’s captain Pat Cummins, who missed the MCG Test, and is tied for second place with Pakistan's spinner Noman Ali. The 35-year-old fast bowler is closing in on Jasprit Bumrah's36 rating points separating them.
Scott Boland, who claimed five wickets in the fourth Ashes Test, has also reached a career-high ranking, moving up to seventh place and surpassing the 800 rating mark for the first time.
Despite their defeat in the MCG Test, Australia's cricket team continues to hold the top position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, boasting a percentage of 85.71. Former champions New Zealand and South Africa occupy the second and third spots, respectively.
Both Starc and Brook are now set to chase the top positions in their respective categories as the fifth and final match of the Ashes series is about to commence on January 4.
Point of View
It’s imperative to highlight the remarkable changes in the ICC Test Rankings following the recent performance at the MCG. The dedication and skill displayed by players like Harry Brook and Mitchell Starc are commendable. Their efforts not only elevate their standing but also contribute significantly to the excitement surrounding the Ashes series. At NationPress, we will continue to keep our audience informed with the latest insights.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is currently ranked No. 1 in the ICC Test Rankings?
The current No. 1 ranked player in the ICC Test Rankings is Joe Root from England.
What performance helped Harry Brook rise to No. 2?
Harry Brook's total of 59 runs in a low-scoring match at the MCG propelled him to the second position in the rankings.
How close is Mitchell Starc to Bumrah's ranking?
Mitchell Starc is only 36 rating points behind Jasprit Bumrah, who holds the No. 1 position.
What impact did Joshua Tongue have on the rankings?
Joshua Tongue's outstanding performance in the fourth Test helped him climb 13 places to achieve 30th position in the rankings.
What is Australia's standing in the World Test Championship?
Australia remains at the top of the World Test Championship standings with a percentage of 85.71.
