ICC rankings: Australia dethrone India as No. 1 in Test team in the world

Australia have reclaimed the top position in the ICC Test rankings, surpassing India following their commanding performance in the ongoing three-match series against Pakistan. This development came despite India's recent seven-wicket victory against South Africa in Cape Town, which resulted in a drawn two-match series.

The Australian team's dominance in the current series against Pakistan, where they have already secured a 2-0 lead with the third match underway in Sydney, played a key role in this shift in rankings. "Australia’s impressive run at home against Pakistan helped them take the crown of the No. 1 Test team once again," an ICC release noted, acknowledging Australia's return to the summit, a position they had previously held briefly after winning the WTC Final.

Prior to the latest rankings update, both India and Australia were neck-and-neck with 118 rating points each. However, India's draw in South Africa has led to them being overtaken by Australia. The ICC elaborated, stating, "With India drawing their two-Test series against South Africa 1-1 and Australia recording two wins in as many matches against Pakistan, the Pat Cummins-led side now top the Test rankings."

This achievement adds to Australia's remarkable year, which also includes victories in the ICC World Test Championship Final and the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. Despite this, India continues to hold the top spot in the World Test Championship points table with a percentage of 54.16 from four Tests, comprising two wins, one loss, and a draw.

Following India on the WTC table are South Africa and New Zealand, both tied with 50 percentage points each, and Australia closely trailing in fourth place.

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