How did Sikandar Raza become the No. 1 ODI all-rounder for the first time?
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Synopsis
In a stunning turn of events, Zimbabwe's Sikandar Raza has achieved the top spot as the No. 1 ODI all-rounder for the first time, following an outstanding series against Sri Lanka. Discover how his remarkable performances have reshaped the rankings and what this means for his cricketing career and Zimbabwe's cricketing landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Sikandar Raza becomes the first Zimbabwean to reach No. 1 in the ODI all-rounder rankings.
- He scored 151 runs in two matches against Sri Lanka.
- Raza moves up to 22nd in the batting rankings.
- Significant strides made by other players in the rankings.
- Impact of Raza's achievement on Zimbabwe cricket.
Dubai, Sep 3 (NationPress) In a remarkable achievement, Zimbabwe's Sikandar Raza has ascended to the top of the ICC Men’s ODI all-rounder rankings for the first time following an impressive performance in the recent two-match series against Sri Lanka in Harare.
The 39-year-old athlete delivered a stellar performance, scoring 92 and 59 not out in the matches and claiming one wicket, allowing him to surpass the Afghan duo of Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi, who now hold second and third places, respectively. Raza previously ranked second in December 2023.
His total of 151 runs not only earned him the all-rounder title but also propelled him nine spots to 22nd in the batting rankings, just two places shy of his career-best 24th position achieved in June 2023. Additionally, he moved up one position to 38th among bowlers, according to ICC reports.
In other updates, Sri Lanka's opener Pathum Nissanka excelled with 198 runs in the series, earning the title of Player of the Series and climbing seven places to 13th. Other players like Janith Liyanage (up 13 places to 29th) and Sean Williams of Zimbabwe (up three places to 47th) also improved their standings in the batting rankings.
Meanwhile, in the first ODI between South Africa and England at Headingley, Keshav Maharaj dominated with a match-winning performance, overtaking Sri Lanka's Maheesh Theekshana to secure the No. 1 bowler position with figures of 4 for 22. Jofra Archer (up six places to 19th) and Lungi Ngidi (up five places to joint 23rd) also saw improvements in their bowling rankings.
Additionally, Sri Lanka's Asitha Fernando climbed six places to 31st, while Dilshan Madushanka made a significant leap from 60th to 52nd position following a hat-trick performance in the first ODI in Harare.
In the T20I rankings, Afghanistan players Ibrahim Zadran and Sediqullah Atal made significant strides after their contributions in a tri-series match against Pakistan in Sharjah, with Zadran moving up 12 places to 20th and Atal skyrocketing 346 places to 127th.
Among others, Pakistan batters Hasan Nawaz (up two places to joint 31st) and bowlers Sufiyan Muqeem (up 11 places to 22nd), Shaheen Afridi (up eight places to 26th), and Mohammad Nawaz (up 15 places to 43rd) also experienced upward movement in their respective rankings.
Point of View
I view Sikandar Raza's ascent to the top of the ODI all-rounder rankings as a significant milestone not just for him, but for Zimbabwean cricket as a whole. His dedication and performance can inspire a new generation of cricketers in our nation. Such achievements reflect our potential on the international stage, and we should celebrate and support our athletes as they strive for excellence.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Sikandar Raza's ranking mean for Zimbabwe cricket?
Sikandar Raza's ranking signifies a remarkable achievement for Zimbabwe cricket, showcasing the talent and potential of its players on the global stage.
How many runs did Sikandar Raza score in the series against Sri Lanka?
Sikandar Raza scored a total of 151 runs in the two-match series against Sri Lanka.
Who were the other top players in the ODI rankings?
The other top players in the ODI rankings include Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi from Afghanistan, who are currently in second and third place, respectively.
What impact does this ranking have on Raza's career?
This ranking enhances Raza's reputation and opens opportunities for further success and recognition in his cricketing career.
Who topped the Player of the Series in the Sri Lanka series?
Pathum Nissanka from Sri Lanka topped the Player of the Series with an aggregate of 198 runs.
