In a remarkable career milestone, Saud Shakeel, the vice-captain of Pakistan’s national Test team, has ascended into the top 10 in the latest ICC Test Player Rankings, securing the 7th spot. This leap of 20 places follows an impressive performance in the recent three-Test series against England, where Saud showcased exceptional skill and consistency, scoring 280 runs, including a century and a half-century, across five innings. His standout contributions earned him the “Player of the Series” title and solidified his place as one of the most promising batsmen in Pakistan’s Test lineup.
Alongside Saud, Babar Azam, the team’s captain and a celebrated figure in international cricket, has also moved up in the rankings, now positioned 18th after climbing from 19th. Although known primarily for his prowess in white-ball cricket, Babar’s progress in the Test rankings reflects his increasing dedication to improving his form in the longer format of the game.
The latest ICC rankings also saw significant shifts among international players. England’s Joe Root remains firmly in the top position for Test batsmen, displaying the consistency and skill that have kept him at the pinnacle of the rankings. New Zealand’s Kane Williamson follows closely in the second position, renowned for his technical brilliance and adaptability across various pitches and conditions.
Among emerging players, India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal has made an impressive leap, moving up to the third position. The young Indian batsman has shown great potential and adaptability, securing a place in the upper echelons of Test cricket rankings. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli, one of India’s most decorated cricketers, has seen a slight decline, slipping to 14th place after dropping six spots. Despite this, Kohli’s experience and skill make him a consistent threat on any cricketing platform, and fans eagerly await his comeback to the top ranks.
New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra has also broken into the top ten, climbing eight places to secure the 10th spot. His journey through the ranks highlights the growing talent pool in New Zealand’s cricketing landscape, where young players like Ravindra are making a mark in international cricket.
Saud Shakeel’s rise, along with other shifts in the ICC Test rankings, signals a dynamic phase in Test cricket, where a blend of experience and emerging talent shapes the competitive field. Pakistan’s cricket fans are especially proud of Saud’s achievements, as his ascent not only enhances his personal career but also strengthens Pakistan’s position on the global cricketing stage.
