Pakistan are the new No.1 ODI team

Pakistan cricket team climbed to the top of the ICC ODI Rankings for teams ahead of the start of Asia Cup 2023 and the crucial ICC ODI World Cup. Babar Azam's men did so by defeating Afghanistan 3-0 in the 3-match series. In the process, Pakistan went on to dethrone Australia in the standings. Before the Afghanistan series, Australia occupied the No. 1 spot with Pakistan placed second at 115.8 rating points. They needed a victory in the third match to become the No.1 ODI team and they have done it. The Indian cricket team, who had recently defeated West Indies 2-1 in an ODI series, are in the third spot in the rankings.

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"This achievement reflects the hard work, dedication, and unity exhibited by our talented players and their unwavering focus on excellence. It is a proud moment for all of us as the Pakistan cricket team reclaims the top spot in the ODI rankings," Zaka Ashraf, the chairman of the PCB Management Committee said.

"I also want to congratulate and laud the efforts of the entire squad, coaching staff, and support personnel for their collective commitment to raising the flag of Pakistan high in the world of cricket," Ashraf added.

Pakistan won the first ODI by 142 runs at the back of a brilliant bowling display. The second game turned out to be intense, with the Men in Green grinding out a win in the last over, with the last pair standing. The third ODI saw Afghanistan lose the match by 59 runs. Pakistan posted a challenging 268 and it was enough to become the new No.1 ODI team.