India opener Smriti Mandhana has reclaimed the top spot in the ICC Women’s ODI Batting Rankings, marking her return to the summit for the first time since November 2019. The latest rankings update released by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday confirmed the 28-year-old’s rise to the number one position with 727 rating points.
Mandhana climbed one spot to displace South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt, who now shares the second position with England’s captain Nat Sciver-Brunt. Wolvaardt registered scores of 27 and 28 in the first two matches of South Africa’s ongoing series against the West Indies, resulting in her slide down the rankings.
Mandhana’s return to form has been evident in recent months. She struck her 11th ODI century during the final of the tri-series involving Sri Lanka and South Africa in Colombo, helping India clinch the title.
The latest rankings update also reflected gains for several other players. Tazmin Brits of South Africa moved up five places to 27th after scoring a half-century in the opening match of the series in Barbados. The three-match series is currently level at 1–1, with South Africa responding to their four-wicket defeat in the first game by securing a 40-run win in the second.
West Indies batters Shemaine Campbelle jumped seven spots to 62nd, while Qiana Joseph climbed 12 places to joint-67th after contributing a 60-run knock in the first ODI.
Former South Africa captain Sune Luus featured among the biggest movers. Her innings of 76 in the second match propelled her seven places up to 42nd in the batters’ list. She also rose an equal number of positions in the bowlers’ rankings, reaching 42nd.
On the bowling front, West Indies spinner Afy Fletcher made the most significant advance, moving into the top 20. Her four-wicket haul against South Africa lifted her to 19th on the ODI bowlers’ list, which continues to be led by England’s left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone.
(With inputs from agencies)
