New Delhi: India’s stupendous performance at the Asia Cup 2023, securing their 8th title, has propelled them to the cusp of becoming the top-ranked ODI team globally. With an opportunity to ascend to world No.1 in all three cricket formats, the Indian cricket team is in high spirits ahead of their upcoming ODI series against Australia.
Dominance in Asia Cup 2023
During the Asia Cup, India exhibited remarkable prowess, suffering only a rare defeat to Bangladesh while experimenting with their benched players. However, they promptly regained their full strength for the final, where they convincingly outperformed Sri Lanka to secure their 8th Asia Cup title.
Consolidating second position
India’s triumph at the Asia Cup elevated them to the second position in the ODI Rankings. Now, they are poised to unseat Pakistan from the top spot, setting the stage for an intense series against Australia.
The path to no.1 in ODIs
In the forthcoming ODI series against Australia, if India secures victory in the first ODI in Mohali on September 22, it would mark a significant achievement. Captain Rohit Sharma could join an elite group of leaders who have guided their teams to the No.1 position in all three cricket formats. However, the journey is not without its challenges.
The rivalry with Australia
Pat Cummins and his Australian team, despite currently ranking third, possess the potential to disrupt India’s ascent to the No.1 spot. If Australia manages to win the series with a 3-0 scoreline, India would slip to third place in the ODI rankings.
A close contest
Currently, both India and Pakistan share the same 115 rating points, with Australia slightly behind at 113. Therefore, India’s path to the top position hinges on a successful series against Australia in their upcoming matches.
As the cricketing world watches with bated breath, the series promises thrilling encounters and a potential shift in the rankings, setting the stage for the ICC World Cup in November. Will India rise to the occasion and clinch the No.1 spot in ODIs? Cricket enthusiasts will eagerly await the outcome.