Australia reclaim top position in ICC T20I rankings by beating England

Australia have reclaimed the top position in the ICC T20i rankings after winning the dead rubber against England by five wickets. Aaron Finch-led team had started the series at 278 points, 10 points ahead of their arch-rivals England.

 

However, as the visitors had lost the first two matches, they lost their numero uno position. England and Australia were both on 273 after the first two matches but the former was ahead on the basis of decimal points.

 

Australia had to win the final T20I to regain their top position and they were able to do it. The Men in Yellow reached the pinnacle of the ICC T20I rankings for the first time after the annual rankings update on 1st May. Consequently, Australia were successful in returning to the top position within two days after they were displaced by England.

 

Australia have 275 points under their belt whereas England have 271 rating points. The Indian team is in third place with 266 rating points whereas the former number one team, Pakistan occupy the fourth place with 261 rating points.

 

Meanwhile, England were without the services of Jos Buttler and their full-time captain Eoin Morgan. Moeen Ali had led the team in the absence of Morgan. Australian captain Aaron Finch had won the toss and decided to bowl first. The hosts didn’t have a perfect start as they lost the wicket of in-form Tom Banton early.

 

However, Jonny Bairstow scored a fine knock of 55 runs to provide solidarity to England. Joe Denly provided the finishing touches as he scored 19-ball 29 to help England post 145 runs on the board.

 

Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood were economical for Australia and they also picked up a wicket apiece.

 

On the other hand, Australia had a decent start in their batting innings as Finch and Wade added 31 runs. Finch then added 39 runs with Marcus Stoinis but then the visitors lost four quick wickets. However, Mitchell Marsh was able to take his team over the line as he scored 39 runs off 36 balls.

 

England and Australia will now play the first ODI at Old Trafford, Manchester on 11th September.