Pakistan's Cricket Team Plummets to Historic Low in ICC Test Rankings

Pakistan’s Cricket Team Plummets to Historic Low in ICC Test Rankings

Pakistan’s cricket team has plummeted to its lowest ranking in over half a century, falling to eighth place in the ICC Test rankings after a humiliating series loss to Bangladesh. This marks the first time Pakistan has ever lost a Test series to Bangladesh.

The two-match series, held in Rawalpindi, saw Pakistan suffer a crushing 10-wicket defeat in the first Test and a 6-wicket loss in the second. The defeats have resulted in Pakistan dropping two places in the rankings, below West Indies, and accumulating a mere 76 rating points.

This is the lowest rating Pakistan has held since 1965, excluding a brief period when they were not ranked due to an insufficient number of matches. Bangladesh’s successful chase of 185 in the second Test was the third-highest by any visiting team in Pakistan.

Despite their impressive performance, Bangladesh did not receive a significant boost in the rankings, remaining in ninth place. However, the series victory has solidified their position in the World Test Championship cycle 2023-25, where they now rank fourth behind India, Australia, and New Zealand.

Bangladesh’s success in the series has earned them 13 rating points, bringing their total to 33. They will now shift their focus to a two-Test series against India, commencing on September 19 in Chennai.

In the World Test Championship, teams are ranked based on the percentage of points they win. A victory earns 12 points, a draw earns 4 points, and a tie earns 6 points.

Babar Azam's Test Ranking Drop: Blessing in Disguise or Cause for Concern?

Babar Azam’s Test Ranking Drop: Blessing in Disguise or Cause for Concern?

Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam has witnessed a significant drop in his ICC Test rankings, falling to the ninth position. This decline comes amidst a string of poor performances in the longest format of the game. In the recent Test against Bangladesh, Babar managed scores of 22 and 0, contributing to Pakistan’s stunning defeat.

Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali believes that Babar’s ranking drop could serve as a catalyst for improvement. He suggests that the former Pakistan captain will be motivated to perform well in the series-deciding second Test against Bangladesh. Basit also advocates for a reduction in Babar’s ODI ranking, arguing that he is not the number one batter in that format.

Basit criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for organizing the Champions Cup, a domestic 50-over tournament, after the Test series against Bangladesh. He urged the PCB to emulate India’s approach by organizing more red-ball tournaments.

“India is right next to us, please copy their system too,” Basit said. “The Duleep Trophy is about to begin. Is it a T20 or One-Day tournament? It is a four-day tournament. They are focused on making their base stronger, which is why they are so successful.”

Basit’s comments highlight the need for Pakistan to prioritize red-ball cricket and develop a stronger foundation for its Test team. The upcoming second Test against Bangladesh will be a crucial opportunity for Babar Azam to regain his form and inspire his team to victory.

Jasprit Bumrah: The Unstoppable Force in Indian Cricket

Jasprit Bumrah: The Unstoppable Force in Indian Cricket

Jasprit Bumrah, India’s pace spearhead, has established himself as one of the most formidable fast bowlers in international cricket. Known for his lethal pace, pinpoint accuracy, and exceptional yorker-bowling ability, Bumrah has played a pivotal role in India’s recent successes.

Bumrah’s unique bowling action, characterized by a high-arm release and a slinging motion, generates immense pace and bounce. This, coupled with his ability to swing the ball both ways, makes him a nightmare for batsmen. His death bowling skills are particularly impressive, as he excels at containing runs and taking crucial wickets in the final overs.

In a recent interview, Bumrah revealed his mindset when facing tough batsmen. Instead of focusing on the opposition, he emphasizes self-belief and execution. “I tell myself that if I do my job well, there’s nobody in the world who can stop me,” he said.

Bumrah’s impact on the Indian team has been undeniable. He played a key role in India’s T20 World Cup triumph in 2022, taking 15 wickets at an astonishing economy rate of 4.17. He was named Player of the Tournament for his exceptional performance.

Despite occasional injury setbacks, Bumrah remains a vital cog in India’s plans, especially in major tournaments. His ability to bowl with pace, accuracy, and control makes him a formidable weapon for the Indian team.

Bumrah’s achievements extend beyond the international arena. He is the first bowler in history to be ranked Number One in the ICC Rankings in all three formats of the game. This testament to his versatility and dominance across the board.

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