New Delhi, India: India’s star batter Smriti Mandhana has reclaimed the No. 1 position in the ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings, marking a significant comeback to the top after more than six years. The updated rankings were released by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday.
Mandhana’s rise follows a dip in form from South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt, who dropped 19 rating points after modest scores of 27 and 28 in recent ODIs against the West Indies. This allowed Mandhana to leap ahead in the standings, reclaiming the top spot she last held in early 2019.
The left-handed opener has been in exceptional form lately, notably scoring a brilliant century in the final of the tri-nation series in Colombo, where India faced South Africa and Sri Lanka. That knock marked her 11th ODI century and significantly boosted her rating.
Wolvaardt now shares the second position with England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt, as changes continue across the top tiers of the rankings.
Among other key movements:
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Tazmin Brits of South Africa climbed five places to 27th, and Sune Luus jumped seven spots to 42nd in the ODI batting rankings.
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West Indies players also saw notable gains, with Shemaine Campbelle moving up seven spots to 62nd, and Qiana Joseph climbing 12 places to a joint 67th.
In the ODI bowlers’ rankings, Afy Fletcher of the West Indies emerged as the biggest mover, rising four places to 19th after a four-wicket haul against South Africa. The list continues to be topped by England’s Sophie Ecclestone.
South African bowlers also saw improvements:
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Nonkululeko Mlaba moved up six positions to 23rd, and
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Chloe Tryon rose six spots to 45th.
Mlaba’s efforts were particularly impactful, as she claimed four wickets in the second match against the West Indies, helping her gain 11 places to reach 35th position among ODI all-rounders.
Mandhana’s return to the summit underlines her consistent performance and leadership in Indian women’s cricket. With key international fixtures on the horizon, the battle for the top spots in both batting and bowling rankings remains highly competitive.
