India’s triumphant performance in the inaugural One Day International (ODI) against Australia in Mohali has ushered them into the apex position within the ICC ODI team rankings. This accomplishment is a rare feat, marking them as only the second team in history to ascend to the pinnacle in all three formats of the game concurrently.
The pole position in the ODI rankings had been a revolving door in recent weeks, with Pakistan and Australia briefly claiming the top spot at different junctures. India entered the three-match series against Australia ranked below Pakistan, despite their previous victory in the Asia Cup. Nevertheless, their resounding win in the opening match propelled them to 116 ranking points, surpassing their arch-rivals by a mere one point.
In the realm of Test cricket, India, while not yet clinching either of the first two World Test Championships, maintains a slight edge over Australia in the ICC Test team rankings. They also reign supreme in the T20 International charts, notwithstanding their relative lack of success in T20 World Cups.
Team India got off to a winning start
Sealed with a SIX.
— BCCI (@BCCI) September 22, 2023
Captain @klrahul finishes things off in style.#TeamIndia win the 1st ODI by 5 wickets.
Scorecard – https://t.co/H6OgLtww4N… #INDvAUS@IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/PuNxvXkKZ2
This historic achievement places India in an exclusive club, sharing this distinction with South Africa, who previously held the top spot in all three formats in August 2012 when they took the Test mace from England. It’s worth noting that earlier this year, a brief hiccup occurred when the ICC website momentarily listed India as the No.1 ranked Test side before reverting to Australia at the top.
This time, however, India’s dominance is confirmed without any technical discrepancies. India’s securing of the top spot was a systematic triumph, with Mohammed Shami’s five-wicket haul restricting Australia to 276 runs. Subsequently, half-centuries by Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, and Suryakumar Yadav sealed the victory.
Team India’s extraordinary achievement underscores their unwavering commitment, exceptional skills, and relentless hard work. With a formidable nucleus of talented players and exemplary leadership, India’s cricketing future shines brightly. As they revel in the glory of this historic milestone, the global cricketing fraternity eagerly anticipates witnessing India’s continued dominance in the sport for years to come.
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