By Zainab Shafiq 
Cricket’s ever-evolving global landscape has once again been reshaped with the latest ICC rankings update, and Sri Lanka are stealing the spotlight. While giants like Australia and India continue to hold firm at the top in their respective formats, it’s the shift in middle-order teams, especially Sri Lanka’s rise and Pakistan’s decline, that has sparked headlines.
The latest ICC rankings update spans all three formats, Test, ODI, and T20I, with notable changes following a recalibration of match weightings. Matches played since May 2024 now carry full value, while older games are considered at 50%, reshuffling team positions with a focus on recent form.
Sri Lanka’s Climb in All Formats Draws Global Attention
In ODIs, Sri Lanka pulled off a remarkable surge, climbing to fourth after a stellar showing that included series wins over India and Australia. This propelled them past Pakistan and South Africa, both of whom now trail behind. It’s a significant narrative shift, especially as Pakistan’s form continues to waver despite a minimal one-point gain.
Test cricket saw England leapfrog into second place, thanks to a dominant year under Ben Stokes. Australia, the reigning World Test Champions, retain the crown but their lead has slightly narrowed. South Africa and India were edged down to third and fourth, respectively. Sri Lanka remain sixth in Tests, but with momentum on their side.
Latest ICC T20I Rankings Update
India remain the benchmark in T20Is, but their cushion has thinned with Australia just a single point behind. Yet again, Sri Lanka made moves, overtaking Pakistan for seventh place. Pakistan’s form in the shortest format is increasingly under scrutiny as Bangladesh and Afghanistan round out the top 10. Meanwhile, Canada’s nine-point surge pushes them into the top 20, marking a significant achievement for an associate nation.
Smaller cricketing nations like Bahamas and Estonia made the biggest leaps, reminding fans that cricket’s reach and competitiveness are expanding fast.