Australia has made a significant jump in the ICC Men's ODI Team Rankings after securing an unassailable lead in the ongoing three-match series against India, while with consecutive victories in the first two ODIs, Australia has climbed from third to second position, showcasing a strong performance ahead of the final encounter. This series win has reshaped the top order of the global ODI rankings, pushing New Zealand down a spot.
India Holds On to Number One Spot
Despite suffering two back-to-back defeats in the series, Team India has managed to maintain its top position in the ICC ODI rankings. India currently holds a rating of 121, while the recent losses have led to a slight dip in their rating points, but it wasn't enough to dislodge them from the pinnacle. Meanwhile, Australia's rating has surged to 110, allowing them to overtake New Zealand, which now sits in third place with a rating of 109, while this means India's defeat directly benefited Australia while causing New Zealand to slide down in the rankings.
Impact of the Final Match
The third and final ODI of the series, scheduled for Saturday, carries considerable weight, not just for pride but also for potential further shifts in the ICC rankings. If India manages to win the last match, Australia's rating would drop back to 109, placing them alongside or potentially behind New Zealand depending on decimal points. India's rating could also increase to 122 with a win. Conversely, if India loses the final match as well, their rating would further decrease to 119, while Australia's would climb to 111. The outcome of this match will be crucial in determining the final positions in the ranking table, especially with the World Cup approaching.
