Wanindu becomes world’s top-ranked T20I bowler

Rashid Khan’s reign at the top of the MRF ICC Men’s T20I Bowling Rankings has been short-lived, with the Afghanistan spinner usurped in top spot by Sri Lanka’s Wanindu Hasaranga.

Rashid had pushed Australian Josh Hazlewood out of top spot after his strong start to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022, but the continued brilliance of Hasaranga means he has risen to the summit thanks to his World Cup heroics.

Hasaranga took 15 wickets during Sri Lanka’s World Cup campaign, more than any other player by the end of the Super 12 stage, and has regained the number one ranking that he last held in November 2021.

He finished the tournament with magnificent returns of 3/13 against Afghanistan and 2/23 against England, adding further weight to his reputation as one of the best leg-spinners in world cricket.

Three years into his T20I career, Hasaranga’s figures are remarkable. In 52 matches he has now taken 86 wickets at an average of just 14.48 and at an extremely impressive economy of just 6.67.

The 25-year-old is a handy batter too, but a lack of time in the middle during the World Cup has prevented him from moving further up the all-rounder rankings, remaining at number eight.
(ICC)