The ICC’s latest rankings update has brought a wave of positive news for Bangladesh cricket, with several players achieving career-boosting leaps following their strong performances in the T20I series against Ireland. The Tigers’ three-match domination has now translated directly into significant ranking improvements across both batting and bowling charts.
At the top of the batting highlight reel is Parvez Hossain Emon, whose steady yet impactful innings gave Bangladesh important starts in the series. His 77 runs at a 38.50 average may not appear monumental at a glance, but their value in match situations was enough to propel him a staggering 21 places, landing him at 38th position in the T20I batting rankings.
Right behind him is Tawhid Hridoy, who showcased exceptional maturity throughout the series. With only two innings available to him, he finished as the highest run-scorer with 89 runs. His fluent stroke play and ability to dominate spin gifted him a five-spot rise, placing him at 43rd.
On the bowling front, Mustafizur Rahman once again reaffirmed his stature as Bangladesh’s premier T20 specialist. His 3 wickets for 73 runs, including several crucial breakthroughs, pushed him from 10th to 8th place in the global rankings. His experience, variations, and control continue to set him apart on the international stage.
Bangladesh also benefitted from the outstanding performances of their spinners. Mehidy Hasan, with figures of 4/49 in two matches, climbed to 14th place after a three-spot improvement. Rishad Hossain, showing tremendous growth, also enjoyed a five-spot jump to reach 19th, while seasoned campaigner Nasum Ahmed moved up five places to 25th.
Beyond Bangladesh, cricket fans witnessed significant ranking shifts in other formats as well. India’s veteran superstar Virat Kohli made headlines yet again by climbing to 4th place in ODI batting rankings after smashing a majestic 135 against South Africa. With a rating of 751, he now sits just 32 points shy of Rohit Sharma, who remains No. 1.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Saim Ayub regained the top position in the T20I all-rounder rankings after scoring 118 runs and claiming 3 wickets in the Rawalpindi tri-nation series. His balanced all-round contribution allowed him to reclaim the No. 1 throne he had temporarily lost to Sikandar Raza.
South Africa also enjoyed massive upgrades in Test cricket. Pace bowler Marco Jansen surged up five places to reach No. 5, while spinner Simon Harmer recorded one of the biggest climbs of the week, jumping 13 positions to settle at 11th.
For Bangladesh, this ranking surge could not have come at a better time. With several young players improving swiftly and experienced players rising again, the latest ICC update suggests a promising future for the Tigers across formats.
