Shubman Gill back as No.1 ODI batter, dethrones Daryl Mitchell

Gill reclaims top spot

India captain Shubman Gill has returned to the No.1 position in the ICC ODI batting rankings, ending New Zealand's Daryl Mitchell's six-month reign at the top. The 26-year-old right-hander last held the top ranking in January before Mitchell overtook him following a strong run in the 50-over format.

Gill's return comes on the back of a prolific stretch of innings in recent bilateral series. He has scored three centuries in his last six ODI innings, including a match-winning 142 against Australia in Chennai earlier this month. The International Cricket Council (ICC) released the updated rankings on Wednesday, confirming Gill's ascent with 842 rating points, 12 ahead of Mitchell.

Consistency under captaincy

Since taking over as India's full-time ODI captain earlier this year, Gill has shouldered the responsibility with the bat. His average in the role stands at 68.4, with a strike rate hovering around 100. Teammates and analysts have noted his ability to anchor innings while also accelerating when needed.

Gill's technique against both pace and spin has been a talking point. In the recent series against South Africa, he scored back-to-back nineties, showing composure on tracks that offered variable bounce. His footwork against spinners in the middle overs has also improved, allowing him to rotate strike more freely.

Mitchell's reign ends

Daryl Mitchell had held the No.1 ranking since February, following a stellar World Cup campaign and consistent performances against England and Pakistan. The New Zealand middle-order batter scored 487 runs in his last 10 ODI innings at an average of 60.8. However, a lean patch in the recent series against West Indies — where he managed only 89 runs in four innings — saw his rating dip.

Mitchell drops to No.2 with 830 points. Pakistan's Babar Azam remains at No.3, while India's Virat Kohli holds the fourth spot. The rankings reflect the current form of players, with the next major ODI event being the Asia Cup scheduled for later this year.

Youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi makes headlines

In a separate development, 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has jumped 230 places in the ICC T20I rankings. The young batter, who made his international debut earlier this year, is now ranked 87th. His rapid rise has stunned the cricketing world, with some comparing his early trajectory to that of Sachin Tendulkar. He scored 312 runs in his last five T20I innings, including a century against Sri Lanka.

Ishan Kishan also scripted history by breaking into the top 10 of the T20I rankings for the first time. Kishan's aggressive batting at the top of the order has been crucial for India in the shortest format.

Gill will next be in action during India's three-match ODI series against England starting next week. A strong showing there could help him extend his lead at the top of the rankings.