Srinagar: Pakistan are set to play three match ODI series against Afghanistan in Sri Lanka and they have an excellent chance to claim No.1 Spot in ICC team ranking.
Pakistan currently occupies the second spot with a total of 116 points, trailing behind the top-ranked Australia by just two points.
Pakistan can move to number one spot in the ICC men’s ODI rankings if they win the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan in Sri Lanka by a margin of 3-0. However, Pakistan will drop to third spot even if they lose one match in the series.
Earlier this year, Pakistan by claiming 4-0 lead over New Zealand in a five-match ODI series, had jumped to No.1 spot. It was first time Pakistan held that position since ICC officially introduced these rankings in January 2005. Their previous peak was at number three, which they had attained back in January 2007.
However, their triumph was short-lived, as their loss in the fifth and final ODI against New Zealand caused them to relinquish their number one status. This setback allowed Australia to reclaim their prime position at the summit of the rankings.
Afghanistan vs Pakistan ODI series:
22 Aug – First ODI, Hambantota
24 Aug – Second ODI, Hambantota
26 Aug – Third ODI, Colombo