Raza Scripts History At 39, Claims No.1 Spot In ODI All-Rounder Rankings

• By Thetripurapost Sports Desk, New Delhi
• Sep 03, 2025
• 641

Zimbabwe’s evergreen star Sikandar Raza has rewritten the record books, storming to the top of the ICC Men’s ODI all-rounder rankings at the age of 39. The achievement comes despite Zimbabwe’s series defeat to Sri Lanka in Harare, with Raza’s all-round brilliance shining through as the defining story.

Raza struck successive half-centuries and chipped in with crucial wickets, including 1/48 in the opening game, to collect 302 rating points. The veteran leapfrogged Afghanistan’s Mohammad Nabi (292) and Azmatullah Omarzai (296), underlining his consistency and determination. His purple patch also saw him vault nine spots to 22nd in the ODI batting rankings, a remarkable feat for a player in the twilight of his career.

While Zimbabwe could not secure a win in the series, Raza’s rise proved inspirational, showing that age is no barrier to excellence at the highest level.

Sri Lanka, meanwhile, reaped the benefits of their series win. Pathum Nissanka’s dazzling knocks of 122 and 76 lifted him seven places to 13th among ODI batters, while Janith Liyanage jumped 13 places to 29th. Bowlers Asitha Fernando and Dilshan Madushanka also climbed to 31st and 52nd respectively.

Elsewhere, South Africa’s commanding triumph over England in Leeds brought further reshuffles. Left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj tightened his grip on the No.1 ODI bowling spot with 690 points. Teammate Lungi Ngidi rose to joint 23rd, while England quick Jofra Archer broke into the top 20, sitting 19th on 571 points.

In T20Is, Afghanistan’s Mohammad Nabi advanced to second place among all-rounders, behind India’s Hardik Pandya. Teammate Ibrahim Zadran forced his way into the top 20 batters, and Pakistan’s Sufiyan Muqeem made his debut inside the top 25 bowlers.

For Zimbabwe and world cricket, however, the week belonged to Sikandar Raza — proof that class and perseverance can still rule the modern game.