India’s 1,600-Day Reign Over, England Rule T20I Rankings Again

News Desk

London: England have reached the summit of the ICC Men’s T20I Team Rankings, ending India’s long reign at the top after a commanding home series victory over the reigning T20 World Champions.

India’s stay at No.1, which began in February 2022 and lasted for more than 1,600 days, came to an end following a disappointing run of results, including a 4-0 T20I series defeat to England. The slide came after India had also suffered a 2-0 loss against Ireland late last month.

England’s rise was powered by a spectacular batting display in the series finale at Southampton, where Harry Brook and Jos Buttler produced a record-breaking second-wicket partnership worth 233 runs. Brook smashed a brilliant century, while captain Buttler remained unbeaten on 95, recording his fastest T20I fifty along the way.

The victory completed England’s mission of reclaiming the No.1 ranking, a target Buttler had openly identified before the final match of the series. The hosts delivered in style, winning four consecutive matches after the opening game was abandoned due to rain in Chester-le-Street.

England’s dominance included India’s heaviest-ever T20I defeat in Nottingham and a remarkable chase of 159 runs in just 13.4 overs in Bristol, underlining their superiority throughout the contest.

For India, the latest rankings setback adds to a difficult start under new captain Shreyas Iyer’s leadership. Since their memorable T20 World Cup triumph in Ahmedabad in February, the team is still searching for its first win in the format. Additional input from ICC website.