(WI Cricket)
The ICC Men’s T20I Team Rankings have witnessed a significant rise for the West Indies just ahead of the highly anticipated ICC T20 World Cup 2024.
As co-hosts of the upcoming event, the West Indies have surged with confidence following a commanding 3-0 series triumph over South Africa. Their impressive performance in the series has set them on a strong footing for the T20 World Cup.
In a display of dominance, the West Indies outclassed South Africa across all three matches. They kicked off the series with a convincing 28-run victory in the first game, posting a formidable total of 175/8 and restricting the visitors to 147.
Maintaining their momentum, the hosts secured a 16-run win in the second encounter, sealing the series with a game to spare. With a stellar batting performance resulting in 207/7, they held off South Africa’s challenge at 191/7.
The West Indies concluded the series in style, trouncing South Africa by 8 wickets in the third game. Chasing down South Africa’s 163/7 target within just 14 overs while losing only a couple of wickets, they showcased their prowess and readiness for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
The West Indies ascend in the ICC Rankings:
Following their impeccable 3-0 series victory over South Africa, the West Indies have surged to the fourth position in the ICC Rankings, a notable climb from their previous sixth spot. This elevates them to one of the top four teams globally as they head into the World Cup. Conversely, South Africa has slipped to seventh place from their former fourth position.
At present, Team India leads the rankings with 264 rating points, trailed by Australia (257 rating points) and England (254 rating points) in second and third place respectively. The West Indies now claim the fourth position with 252 rating points, while New Zealand (250 rating points) rounds up the top five.
With the T20 World Cup set to unfold in the Caribbean and the USA from June 1 to 29, the West Indies are gearing up for a potentially triumphant campaign. They have a unique opportunity to clinch the title on home soil, aiming to become the inaugural team to secure victory thrice in the tournament.
Placed in Group C alongside New Zealand, Afghanistan, Uganda, Oman, and Papua New Guinea, the co-hosts will commence their journey against Papua New Guinea on June 2.
