Hardik Pandya Makes History as First Indian to Top ICC T20I Allrounder Rankings

Hardik Pandya has ascended to the No. 1 spot for T20I allrounders in the latest ICC rankings, following a stellar show in the recently concluded T20 World Cup. This milestone marks the first time an Indian cricketer has claimed the top position in this category. Pandya shares the honor with Sri Lanka captain Wanindu Hasaranga now.

Pandya’s rise in the rankings comes on the back of an exceptional T20 World Cup, where he played a pivotal role in India’s unbeaten run to the title. He amassed 144 runs at an impressive average of 48 and a blistering strike rate of 151. His all-round capabilities were on full display as he also claimed 11 wickets at an average of 17.36. Notably, his match-winning performance in the final against South Africa, where he took 3 for 20, was crucial in securing a seven-run victory for India.

Pandya’s best batting display in the tournament came against Bangladesh, where he scored an unbeaten 50 off just 27 balls, showing his ability to deliver under pressure. His consistent performances with both bat and ball have cemented his reputation as a top-tier allrounder on the global stage.

Pandya’s teammate, Jasprit Bumrah, also made significant strides in the ICC rankings. Bumrah, who was named Player of the Series in the T20 World Cup, climbed 12 places to reach No. 12 among bowlers. He took 15 wickets at a remarkable average of 8.26 and maintained an economy rate of just 4.17. His crucial spell towards the end of the final against South Africa, where India defended a narrow target, was instrumental in turning the game in India’s favor.

Kuldeep Yadav, the left-arm wristspinner, moved up three positions to joint-eighth in the bowlers’ rankings after taking ten wickets at 13.90 in the World Cup. Seamer Arshdeep Singh, who was the joint-highest wicket-taker in the competition with 17 wickets, rose four places to a career-best No. 13.

On the international front, South African fast bowler Anrich Nortje climbed seven places to a career-high No. 2 among bowlers. Nortje was South Africa’s highest wicket-taker in the World Cup, with 15 wickets at an average of 13.40 and an economy of 5.74.

In the allrounder rankings, several players made upward movements. Australia’s Marcus Stoinis, Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza, Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan, and England’s Liam Livingstone each rose one spot to be ranked No. 3, 4, 5, and 8, respectively.