Smriti Mandhana has once again reached the pinnacle of the ICC Women’s ODI Batting Rankings after her stellar half-century against Australia. This remarkable achievement came despite India’s defeat in the opening match of their three-match series.
A Confident Boost Ahead of the World Cup
Mandhana’s 58 off 63 balls in Mullanpur not only showcased her resilience but also helped her regain the No. 1 position. Her performance earned her seven rating points, bringing her total to 735 points, four ahead of England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt, who dropped to second with 731 points. This achievement comes at a crucial time, just ahead of the Women’s Cricket World Cup, which kicks off on September 30, giving Mandhana a significant confidence boost.
Mandhana’s Journey to the Top
Mandhana, who first claimed the No. 1 ODI ranking in 2019, has now had two stints at the top position in 2023. Her consistency and performance have been key to her rise in the rankings, and with the World Cup around the corner, all eyes will be on the star opener to lead India to glory.
Rising Stars from India
In addition to Mandhana’s success, Indian players Pratika Rawal and Harleen Deol have also made notable moves in the rankings. Rawal, who scored a solid 64, jumped four places to 42nd, while Deol climbed to 43rd following her well-crafted 54 against Australia.
Australia’s Standout Performances
Australia’s Beth Mooney rose three spots to 5th after her brilliant unbeaten 77. Meanwhile, Annabel Sutherland and Phoebe Litchfield made significant strides in the rankings—Sutherland moved up four places, and Litchfield surged 13 spots to share the 25th position after contributing half-centuries in Australia’s eight-wicket win.
Standout Bowlers
In the ODI bowling rankings, Australia’s Kim Garth and Alana King reached career-high positions. Garth climbed to 4th, while King moved up to 5th.
On the Indian side, spinner Sneh Rana, who took a wicket in the first ODI, moved up five places to 13th. Meanwhile, England’s Sophie Ecclestone remains the top-ranked bowler in ODIs.
As the Women’s Cricket World Cup approaches, Smriti Mandhana’s return to the No. 1 ranking in the ICC ODI Batting Rankings highlights her importance to India’s chances. With several Indian players rising in the rankings and the Australian players continuing their strong form, the upcoming tournament promises to be an exciting spectacle.
Catch every update on Cricket News, Match Predictions, Fantasy Tips, and Live Cricket Action—only on The Cricket Scores!
