Nabi Becomes No 1 All-Rounder In One Day International ICC Rankings

Mohammad Nabi, the Afghanistan veteran, has dethroned Shakib Al Hasan as the number one all-rounder in the ICC Men's ODI Player Rankings. His stellar century in the first ODI against Sri Lanka in Pallekele propelled him to this prestigious position. Nabi, renowned for his prowess in T20Is, now claims the top spot in ODIs following his remarkable 136-run innings. At 39 years and one month, he becomes the oldest player to lead the ICC ODI all-rounders' table, surpassing Tillakaratne Dilshan's previous record set at 38 years and eight months in June 2015.

Afghanistan's Mohammad Nabi in action against Sri Lanka. (AFP)

Joining Nabi in the ranks of Afghanistan's top performers are Rashid Khan (ODI bowling, ODI all-rounder, T20I bowling) and Mujeeb Ur Rahman (T20I bowling), highlighting the country's cricketing prowess on the global stage. Shakib's reign at the top, lasting 1,739 days since May 7, 2019, marks the longest unbroken stretch in the history of the ODI Rankings.

Beyond individual achievements, the first two ODIs of the series, despite being won by Sri Lanka, showcased remarkable performances from both sides. Azmatullah Omarzai's unbeaten 149 in the first ODI propelled him 19 places up to 57th position, while several Sri Lankan players also made significant strides in the rankings. Charith Asalanka's unbeaten 97 in the second ODI elevated him five places to a career-best 15th position, Pathum Nissanka climbed 10 places to 18th, and Sadeera Samarawickrama advanced from 47th to 41st position after contributing valuable knocks.