How Did Markram and Proteas Players Climb Test Rankings After WTC Victory?
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Synopsis
Explore how Aiden Markram and his teammates made significant strides in the ICC Men’s Test rankings following their stunning triumph in the World Test Championship. This article highlights their impressive performances and what lies ahead for these athletes.
Key Takeaways
- Aiden Markram climbed to 11th place in the Test batting rankings.
- Markram also made significant progress in the all-rounder rankings.
- South Africa's victory in the WTC has boosted the rankings of several players.
- Australia's Mitchell Starc also improved his rankings after his performance.
- South Africa is preparing for a Test series in Zimbabwe.
New Delhi, June 18 (NationPress) Right-handed opener Aiden Markram is among the South African cricketers who have seen an uplift in the ICC Men’s Test rankings following their remarkable victory in the World Test Championship (WTC) at Lord's.
Markram, who played a pivotal role by scoring a match-defining 136 runs off 207 balls while chasing 282 against Australia, has ascended seven positions to now occupy the 11th spot in the men’s Test batting rankings. He is just two points shy of Daryl Mitchell from New Zealand, who is currently ranked 10th with 725 rating points.
In addition, Markram, who also took two significant wickets for South Africa, has made a substantial leap of 44 places in the all-rounder rankings. David Bedingham, who was at the crease during South Africa's historic win, has ascended 17 spots to rank 40th, tying with Australia’s all-rounder Cameron Green.
Lungi Ngidi, the South African fast bowler, who delivered an explosive performance in Australia’s second innings, has risen seven places to share the 37th position in the bowlers’ rankings with fellow speedsters Lahiru Kumara and Naseem Shah.
Meanwhile, his teammate, pace-bowling leader Kagiso Rabada, continues to hold the second position amongst bowlers, right behind India’s Jasprit Bumrah. For Australia, left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc, who claimed five wickets and scored a brave half-century in the second innings, has climbed to 10th in both the bowling and all-rounders’ rankings. All-rounder Beau Webster, who was Australia’s top scorer in the first innings, has gained 13 places in the batting rankings.
Australia is set to kick off their three-match Test series against the West Indies later this month, with matches scheduled in Barbados, Grenada, and Jamaica. Meanwhile, the championship-winning South African players and support staff are returning home on Wednesday and will hold a press conference upon their arrival at OR Tambo International Airport, before enjoying a break and regrouping for a two-match Test series in Zimbabwe.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the incredible talent and determination exhibited by the South African team during the World Test Championship. Their hard work has paid off, demonstrating the sport's competitive nature and the rewards of perseverance. Our nation stands proud of these athletes as they continue their cricketing journey.
NationPress
18/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to Aiden Markram's rise in the Test rankings?
Aiden Markram's impressive performance, scoring a match-winning 136 runs in the World Test Championship final against Australia, significantly contributed to his rise in the ICC Men’s Test rankings.
How did other players fare in the rankings after the WTC?
Other South African players like David Bedingham and Lungi Ngidi also saw impressive advances in their respective rankings following their contributions during the WTC.
What is the next challenge for the South African cricket team?
The South African team will regroup for a two-match Test series in Zimbabwe after a brief break following their successful WTC campaign.
