If Pakistan defeats Afghanistan in the next ODI series in Sri Lanka by a score of 3-0, they will rise to the top of the ICC men’s ODI rankings.
Pakistan is currently in second place with 116 points, just two points behind Australia, who are currently in first place and have 118 points. Even if Pakistan loses one game in the series, they will still fall to third place.
In a five-match ODI series against New Zealand earlier this year, Pakistan displayed their strength by winning and taking an impressive 4-0 lead. Since the ICC first published these rankings in January 2005, Pakistan had not held the top spot in the ODI team rankings, therefore this accomplishment represented a significant turning point.
They had reached their previous peak at number three back in January 2007, so this achievement was a significant improvement.
Although they defeated New Zealand in the fifth and final ODI, their victory was short-lived as they lost their top spot. Australia was able to retake the top spot in the rankings as a result of this loss.
ODI series between Pakistan and Afghanistan:
First ODI: Hambantota, 22 August
Second ODI: Hambantota, 24 August 24
Third ODI: Colombo, 26 August
