Pakistan star Babar Azam has returned to the top 10 of the ICC Test batting rankings, nearly two years after slipping out of the elite group.
In the latest rankings released Wednesday, Babar climbed five places to 10th following Pakistan’s recent Test series victory over the West Indies.
Babar last featured in the top 10 in September 2024. His highest-ever Test ranking came in December 2022, when he rose to No. 2 during Pakistan’s home series against England.
The latest rankings reflect Babar’s contribution to Pakistan’s eight-wicket victory in the second Test in Port of Spain, which secured the series win. It was Pakistan’s first Test victory away from home in more than three years.
Babar scored 88 in Pakistan’s first innings and remained unbeaten on 24 in the second innings as his side completed the chase.
His teammate Abdullah Shafique also made significant progress. After an unbeaten 160 in the first innings and another unbeaten 24 in the second, Shafique moved up 25 places to 32nd among Test batters.
Off-spinner Sajid Khan was another major beneficiary of the rankings update. After taking eight wickets across the two innings, Sajid climbed five places to 30th among Test bowlers.
His contribution with the bat also helped him rise five places in the Test all-rounder rankings. Sajid is now ranked 32nd among Test all-rounders.
The rankings boost comes after a strong series for Pakistan, with Babar, Shafique and Sajid all playing key roles in the team’s victory over the West Indies.
