In a thrilling development for cricket fans, Pakistan’s Saud Shakeel has made a significant impact on the international scene by entering the ICC Men’s Test Batting Rankings top 10. This achievement comes after an outstanding performance in the recent Test series against England, where Shakeel’s skills were on full display.
A Stellar Leap to Seventh Place
On October 30, 2024, the ICC officially announced that Shakeel has surged up the rankings, jumping an impressive 20 spots to claim the seventh position. His current rating stands at 724, and he previously reached a career-best of 728 during a match against Australia in Melbourne in 2023. This remarkable rise underscores Shakeel’s hard work and determination, especially after contributing significantly to Pakistan’s 2-1 series victory over England.
Key Highlights of the Series
In the decisive third Test against England, Shakeel was instrumental, helping his team establish a substantial first-innings lead of 77 runs on a spin-friendly pitch. His consistent performance throughout the series not only secured a memorable win for Pakistan but also highlighted his growing stature in international cricket.
Competitive Landscape of Test Batting Rankings
Currently, Shakeel finds himself among some of the world’s best players. Leading the rankings is England’s Joe Root, followed by New Zealand’s Kane Williamson and India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal. Other notable players in the top six include England’s Harry Brook, Australia’s Steven Smith, and Usman Khawaja. Australia’s Marnus Labuschagne, Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis, and New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra round out the top 10, with Ravindra making an impressive climb of eight ranks.
Pakistan’s Bowling Talent Shines
In addition to Shakeel’s success, Pakistan’s Noman Ali has also made headlines by entering the ICC’s top 10 Test bowlers, rising eight positions to land in ninth place. His exceptional skills have been vital for Pakistan’s bowling lineup, while Shaheen Shah Afridi has slipped from 14th to 15th place.
Looking Ahead
As Shakeel continues to excel, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await his future performances. His entry into the top 10 not only boosts his career but also enhances Pakistan’s standing in the cricketing world. With a mix of talent and determination, Saud Shakeel is poised to become a key player for Pakistan in the years to come.