akistan climb in ICC Test rankings after annual update reshapes standings
By Sardar Burhan :
Pakistan have moved up to sixth place in the latest Test rankings released by the International Cricket Council, benefiting from an annual recalibration that has reshuffled positions across the table.
The update, announced on Friday, reflects a routine adjustment in which older results are either removed or given reduced weighting. As a result, Pakistan gained ground with a total of 89 rating points, overtaking Sri Lanka, who now sit just behind them.
At the top of the standings, Australia strengthened their grip on first place, extending their lead to 131 points. South Africa, the reigning World Test Champions, remain second, while India climbed to third, pushing England down to fourth.
England’s drop is largely attributed to the removal of results played before April 2023, including several high-profile series victories that had previously boosted their ranking. Among those was a 3-0 away win in Pakistan, which no longer carries full weight in the updated calculation.
Pakistan’s rise also reflects adjustments to more recent performances, including a reduction in the impact of a series defeat against Bangladesh. Meanwhile, New Zealand occupy fifth place, with the remainder of the top ten completed by the West Indies, Bangladesh and Ireland.
The rankings shift comes as Pakistan prepare for their next assignment in the ICC World Test Championship cycle. Led by Shan Masood, the team is set to tour Bangladesh for a two-match Test series beginning in early May.
The opening match will be played at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, followed by the second Test at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium later in the month.
Pakistan’s position in the rankings will be closely watched as they continue their campaign, with further Test series scheduled later this year against England, Sri Lanka and the West Indies. Analysts say consistent performances in these fixtures will be crucial if the team hopes to climb further in the standings and strengthen its prospects in the World Test Championship.
About Author
