Sports
Afghanistan Break into Top Six of ODI Rankings, Overtaking Sri Lanka, England and West Indies
Afghanistan have entered the top six of the ICC Men’s ODI Team Rankings for the first time, moving ahead of former world champions Sri Lanka, England and the West Indies. The team climbed to sixth place in the latest rankings, surpassing Sri Lanka to secure their highest-ever position in the 50‑over format. The rise follows the side’s debut in ODIs in 2009 and a steady climb to become one of the most competitive teams in international cricket. Afghanistan had already moved ahead of Bangladesh, England and the West Indies and now has passed Sri Lanka. Since their ODI debut, the team has won 96 of 191 matches, giving them a win‑loss ratio of 1.09. Their progress accelerated during the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, where they recorded memorable victories over former champions Pakistan and Sri Lanka. They carried that confidence into the shortest format, reaching the semi‑finals of the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup for the first time, demonstrating their ability to compete with the world’s leading sides on the biggest stage. Afghanistan’s recent surge began with a 4‑0 away series win over Ireland and continued with an unbeaten record in a tri‑series involving Zimbabwe and Bangladesh. Their strong form extended to T20Is, where they completed a 3‑0 series whitewash against Zimbabwe, sealing the clean sweep with a seven‑wicket victory in the third match in Sharjah on Sunday. The Afghans will now focus on the longest format, with a two‑match Test series against Zimbabwe next on the schedule.