Pakistan defeated New Zealand in Karachi on Friday, taking a 4-0 lead in the ongoing five-match One-Day International series.
After defeating New Zealand in the fourth ODI, Pakistan has risen to the top of the ODI team rankings for the first time since the ICC officially recognised the rankings in January 2005. They have surpassed their previous ranking of third in January 2007.
Congratulations, Pakistan 🎉
They go to the top of the @MRFWorldwide ICC Men's ODI Team Rankings 🙌 pic.twitter.com/GUq2CjOEoK
— ICC (@ICC) May 5, 2023
Pakistan was ranked fifth in the ODI rankings before the series began, with a rating of 106, but have now risen to third after a fantastic home performance.
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The Men in Green now have rating of 113.483, going past Australia (113.286) and India (112.638).
However, to remain on top, Pakistan will have to ensure a clean sweep, winning the fifth and final ODI on Sunday, 7 May. A loss in the final ODI will see them slipping back to No.3 and Australia reclaiming their No.1 ranking.
Pakistan will also remain on top if they win the fourth ODI and the fifth match is abandoned or yields a no-result.
