Afghanistan’s rising star Azmatullah Omarzai has claimed the top spot in the latest ICC ODI all-rounder rankings, overtaking teammate Mohammad Nabi. The 24-year-old all-rounder secured his career-high rating of 296 points following an impressive ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, which included a five-wicket haul against England and a half-century against Australia.
Omarzai’s rapid rise in international cricket has been remarkable, with his performances cementing his status as a world-class all-rounder. His achievement marks a major milestone for Afghanistan cricket, highlighting the country’s growing presence in international rankings.
Meanwhile, India’s Axar Patel also made a significant jump in the all-rounder rankings, moving up 17 places to 13th with a career-best 194 rating points.
In the ODI batter rankings, Afghanistan’s Ibrahim Zadran climbed 13 spots to enter the top 10, thanks to his 177-run knock against England. Australia’s Steve Smith and New Zealand’s Kane Williamson also made notable gains.
Among bowlers, Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana retained the No.1 spot, followed by South Africa’s Keshav Maharaj. New Zealand’s Matt Henry climbed to third, while India’s Mohammed Shami rose three places to 11th after a strong Champions Trophy performance.
Omarzai’s achievement underscores Afghanistan’s growing dominance in white-ball cricket, as the team continues to produce world-class talent on the global stage.
