Has Top-ranked T20I bowler Chakaravarthy achieved his career-best rating while Tilak climbs to fourth in the batting chart?
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Synopsis
In a thrilling update from Dubai, Indian spinner Varun Chakaravarthy has reached a remarkable career-best rating, further solidifying his position as the top T20I bowler. Meanwhile, Tilak Varma's ascent to fourth in the batting chart highlights the growing prowess of Indian cricket ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Varun Chakaravarthy reached a career-best T20I rating of 818 points.
- He maintains a significant lead over second-placed Jacob Duffy.
- Tilak Varma has climbed to fourth in the batting rankings.
- Young talents like Abhishek Sharma and Saim Ayub are making headlines.
- South Africa's bowlers are also showing improvement in the rankings.
Dubai, Dec 17 (NationPress) Indian spinner Varun Chakaravarthy has achieved a career-best rating, solidifying his position at the top of the T20 bowling rankings after securing his third consecutive two-wicket haul in the ongoing five-match T20I series against South Africa.
Chakaravarthy, who took two wickets in each of the two T20Is this past week, added 36 rating points to his total, elevating it to an impressive 818 points. He now enjoys a substantial 119-point lead over his nearest competitor, the New Zealand fast bowler Jacob Duffy (699).
Additionally, left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh climbed four places to 16th in the T20I bowler rankings, following his standout performance as Player of the Match against the Proteas in the third match of the series.
On the South African side, there were notable improvements in the rankings for Marco Jansen (up 14 spots to 25th), Lungi Ngidi (up 11 rungs to 44th), and Ottneil Baartman, who moved from outside the top 100 to 68th.
Young Indian opener Abhishek Sharma continues to lead the batters list, with Tilak Varma now joining him in fourth place, ensuring two Indian batters are firmly positioned within the top five ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026.
South Africa's captain Aiden Markram climbed eight spots to 29th, while Quinton de Kock improved by 14 positions, landing at 43rd following some commendable recent performances.
Despite not participating in recent international matches, Saim Ayub of Pakistan continues to hold the top position in the all-rounder rankings. Meanwhile, India's Hardik Pandya (4th), Axar Patel (9th), and Shivam Dube, who improved four spots to reach 16th, are also making strides.
In Test rankings, players from New Zealand and West Indies saw changes following the second Test's conclusion. Left-handed batter Devon Conway climbed seven places to 34th, while his teammate Duffy ascended 15 positions to 48th in the bowlers' list.
Australian pacer Mitchell Starc reached a career-best ranking of second among Test bowlers, following the absence of Matt Henry from the Test in Wellington.
West Indies all-rounders Roston Chase and Justin Greaves each moved up one spot to 30th and 31st, respectively.
Point of View
It is imperative to acknowledge India’s growing influence in the cricketing world, particularly with emerging talents like Varun Chakaravarthy and Tilak Varma. Their performances not only position them as key players for upcoming tournaments but also enhance the excitement around Indian cricket. The upcoming T20 World Cup promises to be a thrilling stage for these talents.
NationPress
17/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Varun Chakaravarthy's current T20I rating?
Varun Chakaravarthy currently holds a career-best T20I rating of 818 points.
Who is the second-ranked T20I bowler?
The second-ranked T20I bowler is New Zealand's Jacob Duffy with 699 points.
Where does Tilak Varma rank among T20I batters?
Tilak Varma is currently ranked fourth among T20I batters.
What improvements were made by South African bowlers?
Marco Jansen moved up 14 spots to 25th, Lungi Ngidi climbed 11 rungs to 44th, and Ottneil Baartman rose from outside the top 100 to 68th.
Who leads the all-rounder rankings?
Pakistan's Saim Ayub leads the all-rounder rankings despite not playing recently.
