South Africa's Cricket Stars Shine in Latest ICC Rankings Post WTC Victory

South Africa Celebrates ICC Rankings Boost After WTC Win

Following their impressive victory in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia, South Africa's cricket team has seen a significant rise in the latest ICC rankings.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) released the updated rankings on Wednesday, showcasing several Proteas players making notable advancements in the Men's Test Player Rankings.

Aiden Markram Approaches Top 10 in Rankings

Aiden Markram, who was named Player of the Match, surged seven positions to reach 11th place, just shy of the top 10. He is only two points away from breaking into the elite group, with New Zealand's Daryl Mitchell currently holding the 10th position with 725 points.

Markram's outstanding performance included a remarkable 136 runs off 207 balls, which played a crucial role in securing South Africa's WTC title.

In addition to his batting prowess, Markram also contributed with the ball, taking two key wickets: Steven Smith in the first innings and Josh Hazlewood in the second. His overall performance propelled him 44 places up to the 65th position in the bowling rankings.

Bedingham, Ngidi, and Rabada Rise in Rankings

David Bedingham made significant contributions during the match, scoring 45 runs off 111 balls and finishing with an unbeaten 21 off 49 balls. His efforts helped him climb 17 spots to 40th, sharing this position with Australia's Cameron Green.

In the bowling category, Lungi Ngidi's impressive figures of 3/38 in the second innings allowed him to ascend seven places to 37th, joining quick bowlers Lahiru Kumara and Naseem Shah.

Kagiso Rabada, who led South Africa's bowling attack with match figures of 9/110, retained his second position, trailing only India's Jasprit Bumrah.

Mitchell Starc and Beau Webster Make Gains in Test Rankings

Australia's Mitchell Starc and all-rounder Beau Webster also saw improvements in their rankings following their performances in the WTC final. Starc, who took five wickets and scored a vital 58 runs, moved up to 10th place in both the Men's Test Bowling and All-Rounders Rankings.

Webster, who scored 72 runs off 92 balls and was Australia's top scorer in the first innings, climbed 13 places to reach the 70th position in the Batting Rankings.