Virat Kohli moved up to No. 4 in the ICC ODI rankings for batters after his match-winning knock against Australia in the ICC Champions Trophy semi-final in Dubai on Sunday. His stellar performance played a crucial role in India’s four-wicket victory, securing their place in the final. India now awaits the winner of the second semi-final between South Africa and New Zealand.
Kohli’s Impactful Knock Against Australia
Kohli showcased his class under pressure and guided India to victory with a composed innings. His ability to anchor the chase helped India overcome a strong Australian bowling attack. His innings not only sealed the win but also improved his standing in the ICC ODI rankings. He now occupies the No. 4 position among the world’s top ODI batters.
ICC ODI Rankings Shake-Up
Kohli’s rise in the rankings coincided with Rohit Sharma dropping two places to No. 5. Sharma has played an aggressive role in the Champions Trophy, providing India with rapid starts. However, his individual scores have not been substantial, which impacted his ranking. He has scored 104 runs in four matches, placing him at No. 25 on the tournament’s top run-scorers list. His highest score so far has been 41.
Shubman Gill, India’s vice-captain, remains at the top of the ODI run-scorers list. Pakistan’s Babar Azam follows closely at No. 2. Kohli, with 217 runs in four matches, holds the fourth position among the leading run-scorers of the tournament.
Axar Patel’s Career-High All-Rounder Ranking
Axar Patel achieved a career-best ODI ranking for all-rounders, climbing to No. 13 with 194 rating points. His consistent performances with both bat and ball played a significant role in India’s success in the Champions Trophy. His rise in rankings reflects his growing impact as a dependable all-rounder.
Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai now sits atop the all-rounders’ rankings, displacing compatriot Mohammad Nabi. Omarzai’s performances have made him the most highly rated all-rounder in the format.
Mohammed Shami’s Bowling Brilliance
Mohammed Shami continued his excellent form in the tournament and climbed three places in the ICC ODI rankings for bowlers. He now holds the No. 11 spot with 609 rating points. His eight wickets in the Champions Trophy propelled him past New Zealand’s Matt Henry, placing him third among the top wicket-takers. Only Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana and South Africa’s Keshav Maharaj rank higher in the bowling charts.
India’s Strong Presence in ICC Rankings
With Kohli, Gill, and Sharma in the top five ODI batting rankings, India boasts one of the most formidable batting lineups. Shami’s rise among bowlers and Axar’s improvement among all-rounders further reinforce India’s dominance across all departments. Their collective performances in the Champions Trophy have positioned India as the tournament favorites.
Road Ahead for Kohli and Team India
Kohli’s form in the Champions Trophy has boosted India’s confidence ahead of the final. His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations has once again proven why he remains one of the best ODI batters in the world. India will look to him for another match-defining innings in the final.
With Shubman Gill leading the tournament’s run-scoring charts and India’s bowling unit performing consistently, the team appears well-prepared to clinch the title. If Kohli continues his fine form, he may climb even higher in the ICC rankings in the coming months.
Final Thoughts
Kohli’s rise to No. 4 in the ICC ODI rankings highlights his consistent performances in the Champions Trophy. His knock against Australia not only secured India’s place in the final but also reaffirmed his position among the world’s top ODI batters. Meanwhile, Axar Patel and Mohammed Shami’s ranking improvements underline India’s depth in both bowling and all-round capabilities.
As the final approaches, India remains a strong contender for the title. Kohli’s leadership with the bat and the team’s overall balance give them a significant edge. With form and momentum on their side, India looks set to chase yet another ICC trophy.
