Saud Shakeel Rises to 8th; Noman Ali Among Top Bowlers: Pakistan’s Saud Shakeel and bowler Noman Ali have made significant strides in the latest International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s Test rankings, following their exceptional performances in the first Test against the West Indies. Their efforts played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s commanding 127-run victory, giving the hosts a 1-0 lead in the two-Test series.
Saud Shakeel, who amassed 84 runs in the first innings, has climbed three places to secure the 8th spot in the ICC Test batting rankings. With 753 rating points, Shakeel leapfrogged Australia’s Steve Smith (746) and India’s Rishabh Pant (739) to make his way into the top 10. This marks a remarkable achievement for the Pakistani batter, reflecting his consistency and ability to perform under pressure.
The top spots in the batting rankings remain unchanged, with England’s Joe Root (895 points) holding the No. 1 position, followed closely by teammate Harry Brook (876) and New Zealand’s Kane Williamson (867).
Bowler Noman Ali’s stellar six-wicket haul in the first Test has propelled him into the top 10 bowlers’ rankings. Now ranked 10th with 761 rating points, Noman’s rise is a testament to his skill and determination. His performance was instrumental in dismantling the West Indies batting lineup and securing Pakistan’s victory.
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At the top of the bowlers’ rankings, India’s Jasprit Bumrah continues to dominate with a career-best 908 points. Australia’s Pat Cummins (841) and South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada (837) round out the top three bowlers.
Pakistan’s Sajid Khan also enjoyed a significant leap in the rankings, moving up 18 places to No. 23 after a commendable performance in the first Test. Meanwhile, West Indies’ Jomel Warrican, who claimed a 10-wicket haul in the same match, climbed 12 spots to secure the 41st position.
There has been no change in the top 10 Test all-rounders’ rankings. India’s Ravindra Jadeja continues to hold the No. 1 spot with 400 rating points, ahead of South Africa’s Marco Jansen (294) and Bangladesh’s Mehidy Hasan (263).
With the second Test looming, all eyes will be on Saud Shakeel and Noman Ali to see if they can continue their impressive form. Pakistan’s strong start to the series has set the stage for further individual and team achievements, as they aim to solidify their dominance in the longest format of the game.
These rankings not only highlight the individual brilliance of players like Shakeel and Noman but also underscore Pakistan’s growing strength in Test cricket. The performances in the ongoing series against the West Indies could be a harbinger of more successes to come.
