South Africa reclaims No.1 ranking in ODIs

South Africa returned to the top of the ICC ODI Team Rankings after sweeping aside Sri Lanka 5-0 in their home series which ended at Centurion.

South Africa had entered the series against Sri Lanka, trailing number-one ranked Australia by four points. However, Australia’s 0-2 defeat against New Zealand and South Africa’s own 5-0 win over Sri Lanka meant the Proteas (119 points) have now moved ahead of the world champions.

India, meanwhile, were placed fourth in the ODI team rankings with 112 points, behind third-placed New Zealand (113 points).

A delighted South Africa captain A B de Villiers said: “We are excited to be back at the top of the ICC ODI Team Rankings. We have had some trials since the World Cup two years ago but have worked hard to rebuild and to gain some form and consistency in this format.

“It’s an important year for us with the ICC Champions Trophy in June and regaining the No.1 position is a step in the right direction for our preparation ahead of the event.

It’s a tight contest at the top so it will be important for us to continue putting in the performances so that we can hold onto the position.”