New Zealand slips to second in ODI rankings after defeat to India, Australia takes the top spot

New Zealand’s men’s ODI team have recently suffered a setback as they slipped to the second spot in the ICC Men’s ODI Team Rankings after back-to-back losses against India. The Kiwis had been sitting at the top of the rankings with 115 rating points, ahead of England who were at the second spot with 113 rating points, Australia at third with 112 rating points and India at fourth with 111 rating points.

However, after losing to India by eight wickets, New Zealand now sits at the second spot with 113 rating points and 3166 overall points, tied with England and India who are first and third respectively. This marks a significant drop for the Kiwis, who had been performing consistently well in ODI cricket and had a good chance of retaining the top spot.

The losses to India were especially disappointing for New Zealand as they had been in strong form leading up to the series, having won their previous ODI series against Pakistan in their own backyard. However, India proved to be too strong for the Kiwis, with their powerful batting line-up and solid bowling attack proving too much for New Zealand to handle.

Kiwi’s drop in rankings has come as a direct result of their 8-wicket loss to India in the 2nd ODI of the ongoing 3-match series on Saturday. India halted Kiwi’s batting innings to just 108, their 3rd lowest against India, and won the match comfortably in just 21 overs.

New Zealand, however, can take solace in the fact that their three most important players Kane Williamson, Tim Sothee and Trent Boult were all missing from the 3-match ODI series against India. Their comeback into the team would certainly make Kiwis stronger than they currently are. As for India, they are currently flying in home conditions and have eyes set firmly on the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023 which is to be held in India.

The two teams will clash in the 3rd and final ODI of the series on 24th January 2023 at Holkar Stadium, Indore.