Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza Now World Number One ODI All-Rounder: ICC Rankings

Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza Crowned World’s Top ODI All-Rounder

Zimbabwe’s cricket superstar Sikandar Raza has officially become the top-ranked all-rounder in the world. This historic achievement was confirmed in the latest ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings update on 3 September 2025. Raza’s phenomenal performance against Sri Lanka in Harare propelled him to the number one spot for the very first time in his career.

The 39-year-old veteran was in stunning form during the two-match series. He scored a powerful 92 runs in the first game. He followed this with an unbeaten 59 in the second match. He also claimed a crucial wicket with his bowling. This incredible all-round display was enough to see him leapfrog Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi, who now sit in second and third place respectively.

A Stunning Rise To The Summit

Raza’s journey to the top has been one of consistent brilliance. His previous best ranking was second place, which he reached in December 2023. His recent heroics have not only secured him the all-rounder crown but have also significantly boosted his standing in the individual batting and bowling lists. His aggregate of 151 runs against Sri Lanka shot him up nine places to 22nd in the batting rankings. He also gained one spot to reach 38th position among bowlers.

The man himself has not yet publicly commented on this monumental personal achievement. His focus has always been on team success. Despite Raza’s heroics, Zimbabwe lost both matches to a strong Sri Lankan side.

Other Big Movers In The Rankings

The series in Harare caused several other significant shifts in the ICC rankings. Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka, who was named Player of the Series for his 198 runs, was a major beneficiary. He moved up seven places to 13th in the batting rankings. His teammate Janith Liyanage also enjoyed a dramatic rise, climbing 13 places to 29th position.

In the bowling rankings, Sri Lanka’s Dilshan Madushanka made waves. His match-winning four for 62 in the first ODI, which included a spectacular hat-trick, saw him jump eight places to 52nd position. Another Sri Lankan, Asitha Fernando, advanced six places to reach 31st.

Elsewhere, South Africa’s spin wizard Keshav Maharaj shook off Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana to take the sole number one bowling position. This followed his devastating haul of four for 22 against England in Leeds on 2 September 2025.

A New King Of The All-Rounders

The latest update solidifies Raza’s status as a modern great of the game. Reaching the pinnacle of the all-rounder rankings is a testament to his skill, dedication, and longevity. An ICC spokesperson officially announced the news, stating:

“Zimbabwe’s star player Sikandar Raza has become the top-ranked all-rounder in the ICC Men’s ODI Player Rankings for the first time in his career after a fine show in the two-match series against Sri Lanka in Harare.”

This achievement marks a proud moment for Zimbabwean cricket. It showcases the talent that exists within the nation and provides a huge inspiration for aspiring young players across the country. Raza’s number one ranking is a landmark moment in his illustrious career.

Latest ICC Men’s ODI All-Rounder Rankings (Top 10):