Shubman Gill Ousts Babar Azam to Become World's No. 1 ODI Batsman

On Wednesday, February 19, Shubman Gill, the young batting sensation from India, and Babar Azam, the batsman from Pakistan, trended on social media after Gill overtook Babar to become the top-ranked batter in the most recent ICC ODI rankings. This shift in rankings has caused social media to go crazy, with many people discussing and comparing the two players.

Following a strong home performance against England earlier this month, Gill took back the top rank. He scored the most runs of any Indian batsman in the match with 259 runs in three innings, which included scores of 87, 60, and 112. His average was 86.33. Gill had previously claimed the top position during the 2023 ODI World Cup, making this his second career claim.

In addition to leading India to a 3-0 series win, his genius enabled him to go up the rankings and overtake the Pakistani batsman. Babar, who had long been at the top, dropped to second place with 773 rating points, while Gill now has 796 points.

Shubman Gill and Babar Azam Viral on Social Media:

Shubman Gill takes the ODI throne from Babar Azam 👑

The India star is now the No.1 ranked batter in the format again🥇 pic.twitter.com/4NytomoIkN

— Sport360° (@Sport360) February 19, 2025

There will undoubtedly be an underlying contest in Sunday's match between India and Pakistan at the Dubai International Stadium because both batsmen are currently competing for the Champions Trophy. India captain Rohit Sharma, who made a roaring century during the England series, remains in third place, 22 rating points behind the Pakistani.

The right-hander has already deposed the former Pakistani captain once before. The veteran regained the top spot after the youthful right-hander briefly held it during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023. The most recent ranking adjustment was interestingly implemented right before the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.

On social media, Indian fans emphasized Gill's recent form and game-winning performances, while Pakistani supporters contended that their star batter's longstanding dominance in the rankings makes him the more complete player. 

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