In the latest update of the ICC T20I player rankings, Hardik Pandya has regained his top spot among T20I all-rounders. Meanwhile, young star Tilak Varma made a significant leap, moving up 69 places to secure third in the batters’ standings.
Pandya’s recent form in India’s series against South Africa played a key role in his rise. The 31-year-old showcased his skills with both bat and ball, surpassing England’s Liam Livingstone and Nepal’s Dipendra Singh Airee to reclaim the top position. One of his notable contributions was a crucial 39 not out in the second match of the four-game series, stabilizing India’s innings. Additionally, his impressive bowling figures of 1/8 in three overs during the decisive fourth match contributed to India’s 3-1 series victory.
This marks the second time Pandya has held the No.1 spot among T20I all-rounders. He first reached this ranking following his consistent performances at the end of this year’s ICC T20 World Cup.
Tilak Varma’s rise in the rankings was another major highlight. As the Player-of-the-Series against South Africa, Varma amassed 280 runs, including two centuries, propelling him to third in the T20I batters’ list. He now trails only top-ranked Travis Head and England’s Phil Salt. Varma’s climb pushed India’s skipper Suryakumar Yadav down to fourth in the standings.
Sanju Samson, another standout player during the series, also saw a boost in the rankings. His two centuries against South Africa moved him up 17 spots to 22nd among T20I batters.
On the bowling front, India’s Arshdeep Singh improved his position, advancing three places to reach a career-high ninth spot. Australian bowlers Adam Zampa and Nathan Ellis also made notable gains in the updated T20I rankings.
