Pakistan’s path to number one is whitewashing Afghanistan

LAHORE: Pakistan can climb to number one position in the International Cricket Council (ICC) One-Day International (ODI) rankings if they beat Afghanistan by a 3-0 scoreline in the upcoming series to be played in Sri Lanka.

Currently, Pakistan occupies the second spot with 116 points, trailing behind the top-ranked Australia, who hold 118 points.

See more: Arthur, Bradburn retained for Asia Cup, Afghanistan series

Earlier this year, Pakistan led New Zealand 4-0 in a five-match ODI series, propelling them to top of the table, their highest ranking since the system was introduced in 2005. However, the loss in the final ODI resulted in Australia regaining the top ranking.

Their highest ranking before this was number three, attained 16 years ago, in 2007.

The series against Afghanistan, starting August 22 offers another opportunity for Pakistan to reclaim the number one spot.

Pakistan vs Afghanistan ODI series:

22 Aug – First ODI, Hambantota

24 Aug – Second ODI, Hambantota

26 Aug – Third ODI, Colombo