Smriti Mandhana Reclaims Top Spot in ICC Women's ODI Rankings

Mandhana's Return to the Pinnacle
On June 17, the latest ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings revealed that Indian cricket star Smriti Mandhana has ascended to the No.1 position in ODI cricket. This marks her first time at the top since 2019, following a drop in rating points for South Africa's captain, Laura Wolvaardt.
Mandhana's impressive performance has seen her consistently ranked among the top ten ODI batters, but she had not held the top rank since early 2019, ending a drought of over six years.
Recently, Mandhana showcased her exceptional form by scoring a remarkable century in the final of India's tri-series against Sri Lanka and South Africa in Colombo, marking her 11th ODI century.
This achievement helped her surpass Wolvaardt, who scored 27 and 28 in her recent matches against the West Indies.
Wolvaardt now shares the second position with England's Nat Sciver-Brunt, while South African players Tazmin Brits and Sune Luus made significant gains in the rankings, moving to 27th and 42nd respectively.
In the ODI batter rankings, West Indies players Shemaine Campbelle and Qiana Joseph also made strides, climbing to 62nd and 67th places. Meanwhile, Afy Fletcher emerged as a standout in the ODI bowlers' rankings, moving up to 19th after taking four wickets in a recent match against South Africa.
Other notable movements include South African bowlers Nonkululeko Mlaba and Chloe Tryon, who improved their standings following strong performances against the West Indies, with Mlaba also climbing to 35th among ODI all-rounders.