Pakistan’s cricketing fortunes are on an impressive upswing as they stand on the brink of claiming the coveted No.1 ODI team ranking just weeks ahead of the commencement of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. The side, led by the in-form Babar Azam, is riding a wave of success, and a resounding victory over Afghanistan has brought them within touching distance of the pinnacle of ODI rankings.
In a thrilling encounter in Hambantota, Pakistan secured a nail-biting one-wicket victory over Afghanistan, thereby sealing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. This triumphant performance has not only reinforced Pakistan’s credentials but has also propelled their ODI team rating tantalizingly close to the top spot.
With the recent surge in their performance, Pakistan’s ODI team rating has positioned them just below the current leader, Australia. A single victory in their upcoming clash against Afghanistan could propel them to the coveted No.1 ranking as early as Saturday. This potential achievement would inject a surge of momentum into Babar Azam’s squad on the eve of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
As Pakistan stands at the precipice of claiming the No.1 ODI team ranking, the timing couldn’t be better. The squad, led by Babar Azam, is considered one of the frontrunners for the World Cup title in India this year. Pakistan’s sole triumph in the World Cup dates back to 1992 in Australia. Now, with their remarkable form and performance, they have the opportunity to enter this year’s edition with the No.1 ranking, setting the stage for a potential second World Cup title.
Pakistan’s journey in 2023 has been marked by remarkable consistency. Out of the 10 ODI matches played this year, they have encountered defeat only thrice, all at the hands of New Zealand. Their prowess, both with the bat and the ball, has been evident in the ongoing series against Afghanistan, edging them closer to dethroning Australia from the top spot.
The Pakistani team also boasts some of the highest-ranked ODI players. Babar Azam leads the way in the MRF Tyres ODI Batter rankings, showcasing his exceptional batting prowess. Teammates Imam-ul-Haq and Fakhar Zaman follow closely, occupying the third and fifth positions, respectively. This impressive lineup of talent bodes well for Pakistan’s aspirations on the international stage.
After the conclusion of the series against Afghanistan, Pakistan’s cricketing journey continues with the highly anticipated 2023 Asia Cup. The team’s first match in the tournament is set against Nepal in Multan on August 30th. Following this, Pakistan will engage in official warm-up encounters against New Zealand and Australia, gearing up for the pinnacle event, the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
The first match of the World Cup campaign will see Pakistan locking horns with the Netherlands in Hyderabad on October 6th, further solidifying their status as contenders for the coveted title.
In the midst of this exhilarating journey, Pakistan’s cricketing resurgence adds to the intrigue and anticipation of the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, setting the stage for an enthralling spectacle in the cricketing arena.
