Hardik Pandya Tops ICC T20I All-Rounder Rankings
India’s star all-rounder, Hardik Pandya, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian all-rounder to secure the No. 1 spot in the ICC T20I rankings. This remarkable feat was updated on July 3, 2024, by the ICC official website. Pandya’s all-round performance throughout the tournament, especially in the final, played a crucial role in India’s success. His contributions with both bat and ball were instrumental in securing India’s T20 World Cup victory.
Impactful Performances in the Tournament
Hardik Pandya’s journey to the top was marked by consistent and impactful performances. Throughout the tournament, he made significant contributions both with the bat and ball. He scored 144 runs at a striking rate of over 150 and took 11 crucial wickets. His ability to deliver under pressure was highlighted in the final against South Africa, where his pivotal wicket of Heinrich Klaasen turned the game in India’s favor. Pandya also bowled the tense final over, defending 16 runs to ensure India’s win.
Shifts in the T20I All-Rounder Rankings
Pandya’s rise to the top wasn’t the only movement in the ICC T20I all-rounder rankings. Sri Lankan star Wanindu Hasaranga shares the top spot with Pandya. Other notable changes include Marcus Stoinis, Sikandar Raza, Shakib Al Hasan, and Liam Livingstone, all moving up by one spot. Meanwhile, Mohammad Nabi slipped four spots, moving out of the top five. These shifts reflect the dynamic nature of T20I cricket and the intense competition among all-rounders worldwide.
Changes in the Bowling Rankings
The T20I bowling rankings also saw significant changes. South Africa’s Anrich Nortje climbed seven places to reach a career-best second spot, just behind England’s Adil Rashid. India’s Jasprit Bumrah, who was named Player of the Tournament for his 15 wickets, rose 12 spots, nearing the top ten, his highest ranking since 2020. Kuldeep Yadav entered the top ten, moving up three spots to joint-eighth, while Arshdeep Singh’s impressive performance saw him move up to No. 13. Tabraiz Shamsi also climbed five positions to reach the top 15, showcasing the competitive nature of international T20 bowling.
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