India become No 1 ODI side in ICC rankings

Ranchi, Jan 20: It was a historic day on Saturday at the brand new JSCA International Stadium. For the first time, India reached the top of ICC ODI rankings. India's seven-wicket victory over England on January 19 gave them the number one position for the first time in the ICC ODI Championship table. It was a double delight for MS Dhoni in his hometown - a comprehensive win and number one ranking. India, who started the five-match ODI series against England, in number three position, have now claimed the top spot once they had held in Tests.

Previously, India had reached second spot in ODI rankings. They had been on top of the summit in Tests but not in ODIs. India's best position of number two was achieved in July, 2009. However, they climbed to number two again in January 2012.

England, who had started the series in top position have slipped to third while South Africa are second in the latest rankings updated by International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday night after the completion of South Africa-New Zealand ODI. South Africa lost to New Zealand by one wicket.

However, India, in order to hold onto the top spot, have to win the next ODI in Mohali on January 23. If they lose that game, then England will be back on top of the table.

India are currently with 119 rating points followed by South Africa with 118. England have 116.

If India lose in Mohali to England, they will drop two rating points and will be with 117 while England will gain two rating points and move to 120. But Dhoni-led side can get back to the top again in Dharamsala on January 27 by winning the fifth and final ODI, with which they will take the series as well.

ICC ODI Rankings (As on January 19, 2013) (Read as position, country, rating points)

1. India 119

2. England 118

3. South Africa 116

4. Sri Lanka 111

5. Australia 111

6. Pakistan 107

7. West Indies 88

8. Bangladesh 78

9. New Zealand 76

10. Zimbabwe 50

11. Ireland 35

12. Netherlands 16

13. Kenya 11