Starc, Kohli Make Big Gains in Latest ICC Rankings Update

Mitchell Starc and Virat Kohli have made significant moves in the latest ICC player rankings following standout performances in their respective series.

Starc’s sensational run in the ongoing Ashes has propelled him to No. 3 among Test bowlers, a career-high for the Australian left-arm quick. With 18 wickets at an average of 14 and back-to-back Player-of-the-Match awards, Starc now sits on 852 rating points, reflecting his dominance against England.

In the ODI format, Virat Kohli has climbed to No. 2 among batters, overtaking New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell after a stellar Player-of-the-Series display against South Africa. Kohli hammered 302 runs at an average of 151, including consecutive centuries in the first two matches and an unbeaten 65 in the third as India secured a 2–1 series win. He now trails only Rohit Sharma, who retains the top spot with 781 rating points, compared to Kohli’s 773.

India had more to celebrate, with KL Rahul rising two spots to No. 12 among ODI batters following scores of 60 and 66* while leading the side. Kuldeep Yadav, the series’ highest wicket-taker with nine scalps, also moved up three places to No. 3 among ODI bowlers.

In T20I rankings, South Africa’s Dewald Brevis broke into the top 10, moving up three places to No. 8 after his contribution in the opening match against India.

The Test batting rankings saw minor shifts as well. Joe Root continues to lead the table after his unbeaten 138 in Brisbane—his first Test century in Australia. Kane Williamson and Steven Smith follow Root, each moving up one place after strong performances in their respective series.

Overall, the latest update highlights major gains for several top performers across formats, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead in international cricket.