Daryl Mitchell dethrones Rohit Sharma as No.1 ODI batter
What's the story
New Zealand all-rounder Daryl Mitchell has dethroned India's Rohit Sharma to become the new No. 1 batter in the ICC Men's ODI Batting Rankings. The change comes after Mitchell's stellar performance in the series opener for New Zealand against West Indies, where he scored his seventh ODI century. Notably, Mitchell has gone atop the ICC ODI Batting Ranking for the first time in his career.
Historic achievement
Mitchell joins elite club of New Zealand cricketers
With this latest ranking, Mitchell has become only the second New Zealand player to occupy the top spot for ODI batters. The first was Kiwi legend Glenn Turner, who held it back in 1979. According to the ICC, other prominent New Zealand players such as Martin Crowe, Andrew Jones, Roger Twose, Nathan Astle, Kane Williamson, Martin Guptill, and Ross Taylor have been in the top five of ODI batter rankings.
Form
Mitchell in sublime form
Mitchell played a 119-run knock as New Zealand finished at 269/7 against West Indies in the 2nd ODI. He slammed his seventh ODI ton as the Kiwis won by seven runs. Mitchell has been on a roll in ODIs this year, scoring 761 runs from 17 games at an average of 54.35, as per ESPNcricinfo. While the one against WI was his maiden hundred this year, his tally also includes six fifties.
Ranking shifts
Test rankings see movement after India-South Africa match
The first Test between India and South Africa in Kolkata has resulted in several players from both sides moving up the latest Test rankings. Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma entered the top five among Test batters. He slammed an excellent 55* in the second innings, leading SA to a historic win. India's Shubman Gill rose two spots to 11th despite picking up an injury during this match.