(Web Desk) – Pakistan’s rising star Saim Ayub has reclaimed the top position in the latest ICC Men’s T20I all-rounder rankings, overtaking Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza after a series of impactful performances during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
The battle for the No.1 ranking has intensified in recent weeks, with Ayub and Raza frequently exchanging positions as teams compete in the global tournament. Ayub’s return to the summit follows an impressive display against India in Colombo, where his spin bowling produced figures of 3 for 25, underlining his growing importance as a multi-dimensional player in the shortest format of cricket.
Raza slipped to second place despite consistent performances, highlighting the narrow margins separating top contenders. Nepal’s Dipendra Singh Airee climbed two spots, while Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai surged four positions, with both players now sharing fourth place after strong contributions with bat and ball.
Significant changes were also recorded in the ICC T20I batting rankings. Sri Lanka opener Pathum Nissanka moved up three places to third after scoring a century against Australia in Kandy. India’s Abhishek Sharma retained the No.1 ranking despite a slight dip in form, maintaining a narrow lead over rivals.
One of the most notable moves came from India wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan, who jumped 17 places to eighth following a powerful 77 off 40 balls against Pakistan, earning Player of the Match honours. South Africa’s Ryan Rickelton rose 22 positions to 11th, while Aiden Markram advanced six places to joint 15th. USA batter Saiteja Mukkamalla and England’s Jacob Bethell also registered significant gains.
In the bowling rankings, Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan climbed to second place, closing the gap on India’s Varun Chakravarthy, who continues to lead the charts. Zimbabwe fast bowler Brad Evans surged into fifth after consecutive three-wicket hauls, while India’s Axar Patel and Jasprit Bumrah also improved their standings. Ireland’s Matthew Humphreys recorded one of the biggest leaps, rising 23 places.
With the T20 World Cup underway, the ICC rankings remain highly competitive, reflecting strong individual performances across batting, bowling and all-round categories on cricket’s biggest stage.
