In a stunning upset, Afghanistan’s Mohammad Nabi has dethroned the long-reigning Shakib Al Hasan as the #1 ODI all-rounder, proving age is just a number. His blistering century in the first ODI against Sri Lanka not only secured victory for his team but also propelled him to the top of the ICC rankings at the remarkable age of 39 years and 1 month.
Nabi’s achievement is historic, making him the oldest player to ever top the ODI all-rounder rankings. He surpasses Sri Lanka’s Tillakaratne Dilshan, who held the record at 38 years and eight months in 2015. This feat cements Nabi’s status as a legend of Afghan cricket, joining teammates Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman in the exclusive club of ICC ranking toppers.
Shakib’s Record Reign Ends as Mohammad Nabi Dethrones Shakib as Top ODI All-rounder
Shakib’s dominance in the all-rounder rankings comes to an end after a staggering 1,739 days at the top – the longest unbroken stretch in ODI Cricket history. His total reign of 4,276 days translates to over 11 ½ years, surpassing even the legendary Kapil Dev’s 3,816 days.
Other Notable Movements in the ICC Rankings
The Sri Lanka series also saw other players climb the ranks. Azmatullah Omarzai’s unbeaten 149 in the first ODI propelled him 19 places to 57th. While several Sri Lankan players enjoyed significant gains. Charith Asalanka (up 5 to 15th), Pathum Nissanka (up 10 to 18th), and Sadeera Samarawickrama (up 6 to 41st) all benefited from strong performances.
Nepal Players Shine in World Cup League 2 Preparation
Nepal’s 3-0 series win over Canada ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 saw their players rise in the rankings. Captain Rohit Paudel (up 3 to 77th), Kushal Bhurtel (up 8 to 88th), and Lalit Rajbanshi (up 14 to 79th) all impressed to move up the batting and bowling rankings, respectively.
Maxwell, Tim David, Warner Soar in T20I Rankings
In the T20I arena, Glenn Maxwell’s explosive 120-not-out against the West Indies catapulted him 11 places to 24th. Tim David (up 35 to 27th) and David Warner (up 19 to 36th) also saw significant gains for Australia. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa jumped from 16th to 11th in the bowling rankings, while Marcus Stoinis rose to 2nd in the all-rounders’ list.
Bedingham, Jamieson, Henry Impress in Tests
South Africa’s David Bedingham moved up 30 places to 79th in the Test batting rankings after scores of 32 and 87 against New Zealand. New Zealand fast bowler Kyle Jamieson gained six places to reach eighth in the bowling rankings, while Matt Henry climbed five places to 26th.
Nabi’s achievement is a testament to his dedication and longevity in the sport. His rise to the top at 39 inspires aspiring cricketers worldwide and proves that age is no barrier to excellence.
