ICC Cricket Rankings – Men’s Teams Update 2024
Cricket is more than just a game for millions across the world, and the ICC rankings serve as a testament to how teams perform over time. As we move into 2024, the latest rankings for the men’s teams in Test cricket reflect fierce competition and some notable shifts in global performance.
The ICC Cricket Test rankings, unlike limited-overs formats, offer a deeper insight into consistency, stamina, and the ability to perform across varied conditions. Teams gain or lose points based on their performance in individual Test series, with official updates made after the conclusion of each series. Let’s delve into the current rankings and examine the top-performing teams in the world of Test cricket as of 2024.
ICC Men’s Test Rankings 2024
| Position | Team | Rating | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Australia | 124 | 3715 |
| 2 | India | 120 | 3108 |
| 3 | England | 108 | 4111 |
| 4 | South Africa | 104 | 2179 |
| 5 | New Zealand | 96 | 2121 |
| 6 | Sri Lanka | 83 | 1833 |
| 7 | West Indies | 77 | 1992 |
| 8 | Pakistan | 76 | 1528 |
| 9 | Bangladesh | 66 | 1323 |
| 10 | Ireland | 26 | 131 |
| 11 | Zimbabwe | 41 | 11 |
| 12 | Afghanistan | 0 | 0 |
Australia Continues to Dominate
Australia continues to reign supreme in Test cricket as the No. 1 ranked team with a solid rating of 124. After dominating major series in recent years, their consistency both at home and abroad has made them a formidable force. With players like Pat Cummins and Marnus Labuschagne leading the charge, Australia remains the benchmark for Test cricket excellence. The team’s resilience and depth allow them to perform strongly regardless of the conditions.
India: Close on Australia’s Heels
India holds the second spot with a rating of 120, not far behind Australia. Known for their strong bowling attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah, and a robust batting lineup including the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, India has solidified itself as one of the top cricketing nations. Their recent performances in away conditions have been commendable, which has helped them climb the rankings. With the upcoming series against Australia and England, India is eyeing the top spot in 2024.
England: Strong Performers, Awaiting a Leap
England sits third with a rating of 108. The recent performances of players like Joe Root and Ben Stokes have kept England in the top tier of Test cricket. However, their inconsistency in certain overseas conditions has prevented them from reaching the very top. With the upcoming Ashes series in sight, England has the chance to narrow the gap with India and Australia in the rankings.
South Africa: A Silent Contender
Ranked fourth with a rating of 104, South Africa has been relatively quiet but efficient in its Test performances. Despite internal challenges and transitions within the squad, the Proteas have remained competitive, particularly with fast bowlers like Kagiso Rabada. As they continue their rebuilding phase, South Africa is looking to rise higher in the rankings.
New Zealand and Pakistan: Looking to Break Into the Top Four
New Zealand, with a rating of 96, ranks fifth, having experienced a few inconsistent performances lately. Known for their steady bowling attack and players like Kane Williamson, New Zealand will be aiming for more consistency in 2024. Meanwhile, Pakistan ranks eighth with a rating of 76, struggling in recent years but always a dangerous side with talent like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi. Both teams are looking to secure major wins and climb the ladder.
Also Read: Pakistan Super League (PSL) Date and Schedule Update 2025
Other Teams: The Mid-Table and Beyond
Sri Lanka, West Indies, and Bangladesh round out the mid-tier of teams. Sri Lanka, with a rating of 83, has shown promise but lacks the consistency needed to break into the top five. The West Indies and Bangladesh have seen a decline in their performances, but with young talent emerging, there is potential for improvement in the years to come.
At the bottom of the rankings are Ireland, Zimbabwe, and Afghanistan. These teams have struggled in the longer format of the game, but as cricket continues to grow globally, they remain crucial players in the sport’s development.
Conclusion: A Competitive Year Ahead
The ICC Test rankings in 2024 present a thrilling outlook for cricket fans around the world. With top teams like Australia, India, and England vying for dominance and others aiming to make their mark, the upcoming series will be critical in shaping the future of Test cricket. As teams gear up for intense battles in challenging conditions, the year promises to deliver exciting moments in the sport’s longest and most prestigious format.