Afghanistan has climbed to sixth place in the latest ICC ODI rankings, achieving their highest-ever position since receiving ODI status in 2009. The updated rankings, released on Sunday, reflect the team’s recent run of strong performances in the 50-over format.
The rise follows Afghanistan’s title-winning campaign in the tri-series in Zimbabwe, where they defeated the hosts and Bangladesh to lift the trophy. The team had also recorded a dominant 4-0 series victory over Ireland before travelling to Zimbabwe, extending its impressive run in ODI cricket.
Afghanistan’s progress in the rankings comes after the team secured automatic qualification for the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2027. It finished among the top eight teams in the rankings by the September cut-off date, confirming its place in the tournament.
The team has steadily established itself as a competitive force in international cricket, with its performance at the 2023 ODI World Cup marking a significant milestone. Afghanistan defeated former champions England, Pakistan and Sri Lanka during the league stage, recording some of the tournament’s biggest results.
They also came close to producing another major upset against Australia. Afghanistan had the upper hand for much of the contest before Glenn Maxwell’s unbeaten double century guided Australia to a remarkable victory.
India continue to lead the latest ODI rankings with a rating of 114, followed by New Zealand, South Africa, Pakistan and Australia. Afghanistan’s rise to sixth place has pushed England down to eighth after the side managed only one victory during its tri-series campaign in Pakistan.
The latest ranking marks another milestone for Afghanistan, whose consistent performances across bilateral series and tournaments have taken the team to its highest position in the format.
