Afghanistan enter top six in ICC Men's ODI Team Rankings
The team has overtaken Sri Lanka, England and the West Indies to reach its highest-ever position in the 50-over format.
Afghanistan have reached sixth place in the latest ICC Men's ODI Team Rankings, according to the Times of India. This marks the first time the side has broken into the top six, moving ahead of Sri Lanka, England and the West Indies.
The team, which made its ODI debut in 2009, has previously moved ahead of Bangladesh, England and the West Indies in the rankings. Since their debut, Afghanistan have won 96 of their 191 matches, maintaining a win-loss ratio of 1.09.
The rise follows significant performances, including victories over Pakistan and Sri Lanka during the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. The team also reached the semi-finals of the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup.
Recent results contributing to the climb include a 4-0 away series win against Ireland and an unbeaten record in a tri-series involving Zimbabwe and Bangladesh. In T20Is, Afghanistan recently completed a 3-0 series whitewash against Zimbabwe, finishing with a seven-wicket win in Sharjah on Sunday.
The Afghan team will now focus on the longest format of the game, with a two-match Test series against Zimbabwe scheduled next.