(AFP Photo)
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s meteoric rise in international cricket continues unabated as he stormed into the top 10 of the ICC T20I rankings for batters after an outstanding performance in the second T20I against Zimbabwe. Following a modest start with just 7 runs in the first game, Gaikwad bounced back emphatically in the second match, playing a pivotal role in India’s commanding victory and series-leveling effort.
Gaikwad’s scintillating knock of 77 not out off 47 deliveries was instrumental in India posting a formidable total of 234 runs. Coming in at No. 3 during the powerplay, he exhibited remarkable composure and stroke-making ability, maintaining a striking rate exceeding 163. His innings included 11 boundaries and a towering six, setting the stage for India’s comprehensive 100-run triumph.
Following this stellar performance, Gaikwad’s ascent in the ICC rankings was equally remarkable, vaulting an impressive 13 places from 20th to 7th. This surge underscores his growing stature in the T20I arena, drawing parallels with his mentor, MS Dhoni, whom he admires greatly.
In addition to Gaikwad’s rise, Abhishek Sharma also made his mark, debuting at the 75th position in the T20I batting rankings following his explosive century in the same match against Zimbabwe. Meanwhile, Rinku Singh climbed four places to reach 39th, reflecting India’s burgeoning talent pool.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s Brian Bennett also saw a significant rise, gaining 25 spots to settle at 96th, buoyed by his impactful performances against the formidable Indian side in the series. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Gaikwad and his counterparts to see if they can sustain their upward trajectory and continue making headlines on the global cricketing stage.
Ravi Bishnoi has surged to the 14th position in the latest ICC T20I bowlers’ rankings
Adam Zampa (7th), Fazalhaq Farooqi (8th), and Maheesh Theekshana (10th) have edged past India’s Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav in the latest ICC T20I bowlers’ rankings. This shift comes as Patel and Yadav are not participating in the ongoing Zimbabwe series, resulting in a slight dip in their rating points.
Meanwhile, Ravi Bishnoi has been exceptional in the current T20I series against Zimbabwe, propelling him eight places up to the 14th position in the ICC T20I bowlers’ rankings. His consistent performances have earned him accolades and recognition on the international stage. Additionally, Blessing Muzarabani’s impressive strides have seen him climb eight spots to secure the 55th rank among T20I bowlers.
In the all-rounders’ rankings, Hardik Pandya relinquished his top spot after missing the T20I series against Zimbabwe, with Wanindu Hasaranga now leading the pack. Washington Sundar has entered the top 50 of the all-rounders’ rankings following his impactful performances in the initial matches of the series. These developments underscore the dynamic shifts in global cricket rankings, reflecting players’ contributions and form across different formats.
