Steve Smith edges Virat Kohli to become No.1 Test batsman
What's the story
The hide and seek game between Australia's Steve Smith and Indian skipper Virat Kohli continues, as both fight for the top spot in the ICC Test Rankings for Batsmen. As per the latest update by the International Cricket Council (ICC), Smith is back at the top, replacing Kohli again. The update comes following India's Test series win over the Windies. Here's more.
Kohli's loss
Kohli's loss is Smith's gain
While India did manage to win the second Test, it was notable that Kohli failed to fire. Although he did manage to score a commendable 76 in the opening innings, he was dismissed for a golden duck in the second. This forced Kohli to drop a point for missing the century, while Smith overtook him, despite missing the Headingley Test of the ongoing Ashes.
Extension
Smith has chance to extend the lead in 4th Test
While regaining the No.1 spot itself is good news for Smith. He has also been cleared to play in the upcoming fourth Ashes Test. This, therefore, gives him a chance to extend his lead at the top. Moreover, given the form he is in, scoring a century could well allow him to better the lead.
Kohli's next chance
Kohli to wait until October for a chance at No.1
As for Kohli's next shot at the chance to become No.1 Test batsman again, he would have to wait until October 2, when India take on South Africa in a three-Test series. However, it would all depend on how good Smith performs in the remaining two Tests of the Ashes, as Kohli would wish that Smith stays calm in these matches for now.
Twitter Post
Kohli continues his head-to-head duel with Smith in Tests
Two of the very best!
— ICC (@ICC) September 3, 2019
In the latest @MRFWorldwide ICC Test batting rankings, Steve Smith has pipped Virat Kohli to become No.1! 👀 pic.twitter.com/eH1DxAmvar
Other batsmen
Ajinkya Rahane back in top 10, Hanuma Vihari rises
As far as the updates for other India batsmen are concerned, Ajinkya Rahane is back in the top 10, rising four places to No.7. He scored a total of 88 runs in the second Test. Meanwhile, Hanuma Vihari too was rewarded for his top performance, as he rose 10 places to No.30, having played just six Tests to date.
Bowlers
Jasprit Bumrah jumps to third spot among bowlers
As for the bowlers, Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who claimed 13 wickets in the Test series against Windies, has jumped four places and to rise to the third spot in the rankings. Meanwhile, Windies skipper Jason Holder, too, has risen, as he finds himself in the fifth spot. Australia's Pat Cummins dominates the top spot, followed by South Africa's Kagiso Rabada.