Sikandar Raza Dethrones Afghanistan Star To Become Number One-Ranked ODI All-Rounder

Sikandar Raza becomes number 1 ranked all-rounder [Source: AFP Photo]

In the latest developments, Sikandar Raza, the Zimbabwe star, has become the new number one-ranked ODI all-rounder after his stellar show in the ODI series against Sri Lanka. Before facing the Sri Lankan side, Raza was placed at number 3, but he climbed two places in the latest ICC rankings for all-rounders.

He dethroned Afghanistan's all-rounder, Azmatullah Omarzai, who dropped to the number two position. Despite a series loss for Zimbabwe, Raza showed his class against a tough opponent by smashing two half-centuries and also picking a solitary wicket. Also, with his effortless batting performance, Sikandar Raza climbed to 22 in the ODI batting charts. 

Raza's brilliant showing in Sri Lanka ODIs

The Zimbabwe all-rounder was at his best against Sri Lanka in the two-match ODI series. In the first match, the hosts needed a tricky 299 to win the match and had lost five wickets for 161 runs. This is when Raza stepped up and, alongside Tony Munyonga, steadied the ship. The all-rounder slammed 92 off 87 balls, but couldn’t prevail a loss.

In the second match, he again showed his class, and on a tricky surface, the talented player smacked 59 off 55 balls and once again became the team's best batter. However, the Zimbabwe side failed to deliver the goods and lost the match, and the series, 0-2.

Other notable change in ICC rankings

If Omarzai went down in the ODI spot, there was another Afghan all-rounder who climbed the ladder. Mohammad Nabi, who has been impressive in the tri-nation series, climbed a spot to become the new number two ranked T20 all-rounder.

He now sits just a place below India star, Hardik Pandya, who occupies the top spot, and the upcoming Asia Cup battle between the two could potentially decide who stays at the top.

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