Ollie Pope Achieves Career-High Rating after Match-Winning Performance in First Test Against India

Vizag: In the aftermath of a stellar performance in the first Test against India, England batter Ollie Pope has reached a new career-high rating on the latest ICC Men’s Test Batting Rankings. Pope’s sensational knock of 196 in the second innings played a crucial role in England’s thrilling 28-run triumph in the opening Test of the ICC World Test Championship series on the sub-continent.

The 23-year-old right-hander’s remarkable innings, which marked his highest Test score away from home, propelled him a remarkable 20 places up the rankings to the 15th position. The innings also stood as the fourth-highest individual score by an England men’s player in a Test match in India.

Despite the impressive individual performances, New Zealand veteran Kane Williamson continues to lead as the No.1 ranked Test batter globally. Following England’s victory in Hyderabad and the conclusion of the tied series between Australia and the West Indies, there’s a minor reshuffle inside the top 10.

Australia opener Usman Khawaja gains two places to eighth, while Pope’s teammate Ben Duckett climbs five places to 22nd after notable knocks against India. In the bowling rankings, India’s Ravichandran Ashwin maintains his position at the top, with Jasprit Bumrah moving up to fourth after his six-wicket haul against England.

The West Indies also sees a boost in the rankings, with Kemar Roach (up two places to 17th), Alzarri Joseph (up four places to 33rd), and Shamar Joseph (up 42 spots to equal 50th) making notable gains following their strong showing against Australia.

In the all-rounder rankings, India’s Ravindra Jadeja continues to lead comfortably. However, England’s Joe Root, known more for his batting, has climbed to a new career-high rating, securing the fourth position after a noteworthy display with the ball, taking five wickets against India in the first Test. Root’s versatility and recent performances mark him as a potential challenger in the all-rounder rankings.