Markram edges Rohit in latest ICC rankings update

Markram edges Rohit in latest ICC rankings update
Markram moved to the top of the ICC T20I batting rankings. © Getty

Aiden Markram has moved ahead of Rohit Sharma in the latest ICC T20I batting rankings, climbing to the No.1 position after a consistent run of scores in the ongoing T20 World Cup.

Markram’s 63 against India in Ahmedabad, followed by scores of 41 and 78 in the group stage, lifted him to the summit of the rankings table. Rohit, who had held the top spot earlier in the year, slipped to third after a lean run in the Super Eights.

The shift at the top reflects recent returns rather than reputation. Markram has accumulated 312 runs in the tournament so far at an average above 50, striking at over 145. Rohit, by contrast, has managed 184 runs in six innings, with only one half-century.

What stands out in Markram’s surge is the weight of runs in high-pressure fixtures. His knock against India came when South Africa were 20 for 3, and the 97-run stand with Dewald Brevis changed the course of the game. Rohit, meanwhile, fell inside the Powerplay in two of India’s last three outings.

The rankings update also underscores Markram’s consistency across conditions. He has scored in New York, Barbados and Ahmedabad, adjusting his tempo depending on surfaces. Rohit’s returns have been largely dependent on starts that he has not been able to convert.

For South Africa, Markram’s rise is timely as they push for a semifinal berth. For India, Rohit’s form remains central to their campaign, particularly with two crucial Super Eight fixtures remaining.

The ICC rankings may fluctuate with every match, but for now, Markram sits at the top — ahead of Rohit — on current form and recent output.

Disclaimer: This is a statistical comparison focusing on early career impact in winning causes. Longevity and overall legacy are separate metrics where the comparison may differ significantly.