Rohit Sharma, the Indian opener, has reclaimed the top spot in the ICC ODI batting rankings ahead of India’s 50-over series against South Africa. The three ODIs are scheduled to take place starting November 30.
Rohit overtook Daryl Mitchell, who dropped crucial rating points after missing the second and third ODIs in New Zealand’s 3-0 series win over the West Indies. Mitchell was ruled out of the final two games due to a minor groin injury.
Having retired from both T20I and Test cricket, Rohit was recently announced as the Brand Ambassador for the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The ICC chairperson, Jay Shah, made the announcement during the release of the tournament schedule, which will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Rohit has featured in all nine editions of the T20 World Cup since its inception in 2007 and was part of the title-winning team that year. He also led India to the championship at the 2024 Americas tournament, finishing as the team’s top run-scorer with 257 runs at an average of 156.70.
“It is great to have the tournament back in India and for me to be associated once again with the tournament, this time in a new capacity as the Brand Ambassador. I wish all the players the very best and hope they have a memorable time and enjoy India’s hospitality while taking back a lot of memories,” stated Rohit following his appointment.
Rohit hails India as host of upcoming T20 World Cup as ICC rankings shift.
Addressing the ceremony at Mumbai on November 25 (Tuesday), Rohit pointed out his happiness that after many years the giant event was back to India and that he was going to be able to take part in the T20 world cup again.
Other alterations in the ICC rankings included Sikandar Raza topping the list of the top two T20I all-rounders in his career, with his impressive series of contributions in the tri-nation series against Sri Lanka, in Pakistan. Mushfiqur Rahim, Littondas and Mominul Haque of Bangladesh all achieved a lot after the victory of their team against Ireland in the second Test of the series by a margin of 217 runs.
