The latest ICC annual rankings have reinforced the stronghold of India and Australia across cricket formats while showcasing notable movements from Sri Lanka and England.
With matches played since May 2024 rated at full value and those from the previous two years at 50 per cent, the rankings reveal key changes that redefine the global cricket landscape.
Test Rankings: Australia Retains No. 1, England Closes In
Reigning World Test Champions Australia remain at the top, holding onto their position with a rating of 126 points. However, England’s resurgence in red-ball cricket has seen them leapfrog South Africa and India into second place with a rating of 113. Led by Ben Stokes, England’s impressive form over the past year helped them narrow the gap with Australia.
India and South Africa each drop a spot to third and fourth, respectively, while New Zealand continues to hold firm in fifth place. Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and the West Indies round out the top eight. Notably, Ireland and Afghanistan still need additional matches to qualify for full ranking status.
ODI Rankings: India Strengthens Grip, Sri Lanka Surges
India’s dominance in One Day Internationals (ODIs) was further cemented by their victorious Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, taking their rating up to 124 points. New Zealand, the runners-up, overtakes Australia to claim second place.
Sri Lanka has emerged as one of the biggest movers in ODIs, surging into fourth place following their stellar home performances, including series wins against India and Australia. This rise pushes Pakistan and South Africa down to fifth and sixth, respectively. Afghanistan also climbs to seventh, displacing England, whose form continues to decline.
The West Indies see improvement as well, moving to ninth place at Bangladesh’s expense. Meanwhile, the USA men’s team made the biggest rating gain despite retaining their 15th position.
T20I Rankings: India Maintains Lead, Sri Lanka Overtakes Pakistan
India, the reigning T20 World Cup champions, continues to hold the top spot in the shortest format, though their lead over second-placed Australia has reduced slightly. For the first time, the rankings feature 100 teams globally, expanding from previous lists.
England sits at third, followed by New Zealand and the West Indies. Sri Lanka’s momentum sees them surpass Pakistan for seventh place, adding to their rise across formats. Bangladesh and Afghanistan complete the top ten.
The rankings highlight India and Australia’s sustained supremacy but also the rise of Sri Lanka and England, suggesting an evolving competitive landscape in world cricket.
With key tournaments ahead, these movements could set the stage for thrilling encounters in international cricket.
