Sikandar Raza crowned as the new ODI all-rounder in latest ICC rankings

Zimbabwe’s all-rounder Sikandar Raza has reached the pinnacle of the ICC Men’s ODI All-rounder rankings for the first time in his career after performing in the recent series against Sri Lanka, 24NewsHD TV reported on Wednesday. 

The 39-year-old made 92 runs and an unbeaten 59, along with a wicket in the two-match ODI series in Harare, propelling him past Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi, who now sit second and third, respectively.

Raza’s previous career-best in the all-rounder charts was No.2, achieved in December 2023.

Raza’s batting contributions also earned him a significant boost in the ICC ODI Batting Rankings, where he surged nine places to 22nd, moving close to his career-best 24th position set last year.

His bowling saw a modest improvement as well, climbing one spot to 38th.

Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka emerged as the leading run-scorer in the series with 198 runs and earned the Player of the Series award. His consistency lifted him seven positions to 13th among ODI batters.

Janith Liyanage also made gains, rising 13 places to 29th, while Zimbabwe’s Sean Williams climbed three spots to 47th.

South Africa’s Tony de Zorzi also made strides, moving to 64th following strong performances.

In the ICC Men’s ODI Bowling Rankings, South Africa’s Keshav Maharaj claimed the No.1 spot outright after a four-wicket haul against England in Leeds pushed him ahead of Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana.

England’s Jofra Archer rose six places to 19th, while South Africa’s Lungi Ngidi climbed five positions to joint-23rd.

Sri Lanka’s Asitha Fernando jumped to 31st and Dilshan Madushanka advanced from 60th to 52nd.