India Players: India’s preparations for their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title defence have received a lift at just the right moment, with several players recording notable gains in the latest ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings. The upward movement follows a run of strong individual performances during the ongoing five-match T20I series against New Zealand, underlining India’s growing momentum ahead of the global tournament.

Abhishek Sharma Extends Lead at the Top

At the forefront of the rankings update is opener Abhishek Sharma, who continues to sit comfortably atop the T20I batting charts. Consecutive half-centuries in the opening two matches of the series have allowed the left-hander to stretch his advantage, taking his rating to 929 points. That figure places him just two points short of his career-high rating, achieved during last year’s Asia Cup.

Abhishek now enjoys a commanding 80-point lead over England’s Phil Salt, who remains second in the rankings. India’s depth at the top end is further highlighted by Tilak Varma holding third place, reinforcing the team’s dominance in the shortest format.

Suryakumar Yadav Moves Back Into the Top Ten

India’s middle order also made its presence felt in the latest update. Former world number one batter Suryakumar Yadav climbed five positions to seventh after an unbeaten 57 in the third T20I of the series. His fluent knock in Guwahati showcased the form that has made him one of the most dangerous batters in T20 cricket.

With the World Cup now just days away, Suryakumar’s return to consistent scoring adds experience and balance to India’s batting unit at a crucial stage of their preparations.

Bowlers Maintain Strong Rankings Presence

India’s bowlers also enjoyed a positive rankings update, led by pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. His three-wicket haul in the third match helped him rise four places to 13th in the T20I bowling rankings, a timely boost as he continues to build rhythm after injury concerns earlier in the season.

Meanwhile, mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy remains firmly entrenched at the top of the T20I bowling rankings. Consistent returns across the opening two games of the series have ensured he retains his position as the format’s leading bowler.

All-Rounders Show Growing Influence

The all-rounders’ list also reflected India’s strengthening balance. Hardik Pandya edged up to third place, highlighting his continued impact with both bat and ball. Further down the list, Shivam Dube recorded one of the biggest jumps, climbing six places to 11th following a string of useful contributions.

At the top of the all-rounders’ standings, Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza continues to set the benchmark with his consistent performances across conditions.

International Movers Across Formats

Beyond India’s gains, the rankings update reflected shifts across international cricket. In the T20I batting charts, South Africa’s Aiden Markram, West Indies opener Brandon King, and New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips all made ground after recent performances. Afghanistan spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman also moved into the top ten among T20I bowlers.

In the ODI rankings, England’s recent series against Sri Lanka produced significant changes. Centuries in the deciding third match saw Harry Brook and Joe Root climb the batting charts, though New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell continues to hold the top spot.