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Pakistan women’s team left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal retained the top spot in the International Cricket Council (ICC) T20I bowlers rankings as the cricket governing body released updated rankings on Tuesday.
Sadia played a crucial role in the Green Shirts’ undefeated run during the recent ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers held in Lahore. With her exceptional performances, Sadia Iqbal was named in the team of the tournament, taking nine wickets at an impressive average of 16.
The 29-year-old made headlines in 2024 by becoming the first bowler from Pakistan to top the ICC rankings.
Sadia Iqbal took three wickets in an outstanding performance against Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka during the T20 World Cup opener, eventually earning her the prestigious top position in the ICC rankings.
On the back of that match-winning performance, she subsequently became the first Pakistani woman bowler to top the ICC rankings.
Along with Sadia, the national team skipper, Fatima Sana, and veteran all-rounder Nida Dar climbed the rankings ladder.
Sana advanced to 13th position in the all-rounder rankings after moving one spot ahead, while Dar also improved one place, moving to 33rd in the bowlers ranking.
“Pakistan spinner Sadia Iqbal remains at the top of the list for T20I bowlers, but it’s tight at the top with just 44 rating points separating the top 10 players,” the ICC statement said.
Meanwhile, no Pakistan batter could feature in the top 20 rankings. Australia’s Beth Mooney held firm in the top spot with 794 points, while West Indies’ Hayley Matthews is next to her with 774 points.
India’s batting maestro Smriti Mandhana has moved into third place, overtaking Australia’s Tahlia McGrath.
With batting, bowlers’ rankings also saw changes with Australia’s Annabel Sutherland advancing to the second spot after overthrowing India’s Deepti Sharma. England’s Lauren Bell also climbed two places to reach fourth position.
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