Babar Azam, a famed Pakistani cricket player, is making waves in the 2023 Asia Cup. According to recent ICC ODI Rankings, Australia leads with 118 points, followed by Pakistan at 116 and India at 115. Pakistan can achieve no 1 in ODI ranking if Pakistan defeats Afghanistan. Pak vs AFG series will start on 22 August.
A notable match between India and Pakistan is scheduled for September 2. This encounter marks their first ODI meeting since the 2019 World Cup. Another game is set for September 10 as part of the Asia Cup.
How Pakistan can achieve No 1 in ODI Ranking
Pakistan has a chance to claim the top ODI spot next month. They will compete against Afghanistan in a three-match ODI series in Sri Lanka from August 22 to 26. If Pakistan wins all three matches, they will reach 119 points, overtaking Australia.
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However, even losing one series match could affect Pakistan’s ranking. Winning 2 out of 3 matches (2-1) would tie their points with India (115), but India would lead due to a minor difference. Losing 1 out of 3 matches (1-2) would push Pakistan down to third place with 111 points.
While Pakistan is expected to perform well against Afghanistan, it’s worth noting Afghanistan’s strength in white-ball cricket. If Afghanistan secures victory in all three matches (3-0), Pakistan’s points would drop to 111, and Afghanistan’s ranking would surge. Even a 2 out of 3 win (2-1) for Afghanistan would propel them above Bangladesh in the rankings.