After 42 months of time, the Indian National Cricket Team has lost its top place in the ICC Test Rankings chart. They were dethroned by Australia and New Zealand to stay in the third position in the chart. Speaking of the same, the former Indian opening batsman Gautam Gambhir calls ranking system as ridiculous.
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Australia enjoyed a great summer last season with a series win over Pakistan and New Zealand at home. They also retained the Ashes last year at England’s soil by drawing five-match series 2-2. However, Gautam Gambhir pointed questions at ICC Rankings and said Australia have not been at their best when it comes to travelling over the past few years.
India should be number 1 – Gautam Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir said India have had a greater impact on the Test circuit in their recent past with wins away from home, especially in Australia. Gambhir also questioned the No. 1 tag for Australia, saying they have been ‘absolutely pathetic’ in the subcontinent.
“Yes, absolutely. 100 percent (India had been the most competitive side). If you have to see from the overall impact point of view, India have lost a series away from home but won against Australia. Hands down, they have been the most competitive side. They won a Test in South Africa, won a Test match in England… not many countries have done that,” he said.
“For me, India should be there (No. 1) because Australia, I have serious doubts On what front have you given Australia the No. 1 Test ranking? They have been absolutely pathetic away from home, especially in the sub-continent,” he said.
I don’t believe in points system –
Further, Gautam Gambhir made fun of World Championship ranking system for giving the same number of points for home and away games. He called it ridiculous, as Gambhir believes winning away from home is a big task for any team in the world cricket.
“No, I am not surprised (India slipping to No. 3). I don’t believe in points and ranking system. Probably the worst was there in the World Test Championship… that you win the same points when you win a Test match away from home. That’s ridiculous,” he said to Star Sports’ Cricket Connected chat show.
