ICC ODI Rankings 2025: Rohit Sharma Claims Top Spot, Kohli Rises to Second, Babar Azam Suffers Major Drop

The year 2025 has concluded with dramatic changes in the ICC ODI rankings, particularly for some of the biggest names in international cricket. Indian stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have shown remarkable upward trajectories, solidifying their positions among the elite, while Pakistan's former captain Babar Azam has experienced a significant downturn, losing his coveted top spot. This period has been a testament to the dynamic nature of cricket rankings and the impact of consistent performance.

Babar Azam's Unexpected Decline

At the dawn of 2025, specifically on January 1st, Pakistan's Babar Azam held the prestigious number one position in the ICC ODI rankings with a formidable rating of 795. He was widely regarded as one of the most consistent and prolific batsmen in the format. However, as the year drew to a close on December 31, 2025, his standing had dramatically altered. Babar Azam has now slipped to the sixth position, with his rating dropping Importantly to just 722, while this substantial fall is a major setback for a player of his caliber and raises questions about his current form and consistency. The source text indicates that if his current performance continues, he might even fall out of the top 10 in a short period, which would be a concerning development for a player who once dominated the charts, while this decline underscores the immense pressure and the unforgiving nature of top-tier international cricket, where a slight dip in form can have profound consequences on rankings.

Rohit Sharma's Ascent to the Pinnacle

For Indian captain Rohit Sharma, 2025 has been an exceptionally successful year in terms of individual rankings. On January 1, 2025, Rohit was ranked second in the ICC ODI rankings with a rating of 765. By the end of the year, on December 31, 2025, he had successfully claimed the coveted number one spot, with his rating climbing to 781, while this remarkable achievement is a testament to his consistent high-level performance and leadership throughout the year. The source text highlights that Rohit Sharma has retired from Test and T20 International cricket to focus exclusively on the ODI format. This strategic decision appears to have paid rich dividends, allowing him to channel all his energy and skill into one format, thereby enhancing his performance and consistency. His current batting form suggests that he's expected to continue playing until the 2027 World Cup, providing a significant boost to the Indian team's aspirations.

Virat Kohli's Remarkable Comeback

Former Indian captain Virat Kohli also registered an impressive climb in the ICC ODI rankings over the course of 2025. Starting the year on January 1, 2025, Kohli was positioned at fourth place with a rating of 746, while however, by December 31, 2025, he had successfully moved up to the second spot, with his rating improving to 773. This tremendous growth within 365 days shows his enduring class, determination, and ability to perform at the highest level. Similar to Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli has also retired from Test and T20 International cricket to concentrate solely on ODI cricket. This focused approach seems to have been instrumental in his resurgence. And his ability to reclaim a high position in the rankings. His consistent performances have not only bolstered his individual standing but also reinforced the strength of the Indian batting lineup.

Indian Stalwarts' Focus on ODIs and Future Outlook

The decision by both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to retire from Test and T20 International cricket and dedicate their efforts solely to the ODI format appears to be a key factor behind their improved rankings. This focused approach allows them to fine-tune their game for a single format, leading to enhanced consistency and performance. The ranking data from 2025 clearly illustrates the benefits of this strategy for the Indian veterans. While players like Babar Azam have seen a decline from the top, the Indian stalwarts are solidifying their positions. It will be intriguing to observe how 2026 unfolds for these two batsmen. And whether they can maintain their current form, continuing to elevate Indian cricket. Their sustained excellence and experience will be crucial for India's ambitions in upcoming major tournaments,. Particularly the 2027 World Cup, as they continue to be pivotal figures in the team's success.