Virat Kohli Surges to Second in ICC ODI Rankings After Series Win

Veteran Indian batter Virat Kohli has ascended to the second position in the ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings, closing in on teammate Rohit Sharma. Kohli trails Sharma by just eight rating points, following a remarkable performance in the recent ODI series against South Africa. Kohli scored a total of 302 runs across the series, earning the title of Player of the Series.

Kohli’s performance during the three-match series was noteworthy. He recorded three consecutive scores of over fifty, including two centuries. His pivotal innings of 65 not out off 45 balls in the decisive match at Vizag secured India’s series victory with a final score of 2-1. According to ESPNcricinfo, Kohli is now the second Indian to amass 300-plus runs in a three-match bilateral ODI series.

Despite Kohli’s impressive feat, Rohit Sharma retains the top spot in the ODI rankings. He accumulated 146 runs during the series, with scores of 57, 14, and 75. Rohit was previously named Player of the Series in the ODIs against Australia and is expected to maintain his form in India’s upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand, which begins on January 11.

Kohli’s teammate KL Rahul also made strides in the updated rankings, climbing two places to rank 12th overall among ODI batters. In the bowling rankings, left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav advanced three positions to secure third place, thanks to his impressive performance that included two four-wicket hauls during the series.

While India celebrated their series win, South African players made notable advancements in the ODI batting rankings as well. Quinton de Kock rose three places to rank 13th, Aiden Markram jumped four spots to 25th, and Temba Bavuma moved up three positions to 37th.

Overall, Kohli’s ascent in the rankings reflects his enduring skill and determination on the field, as he continues to break records and set new benchmarks in ODI cricket.