Babar Azam, reinstated as the captain of Pakistan's Test team, has made a significant leap in the ICC Test batting rankings, moving up five spots to secure the tenth position. This resurgence follows his commendable performance in Grenada, where he scored 88 runs in the first innings and remained unbeaten with 24 runs during the chase. Over the series, Babar accumulated a total of 193 runs at an impressive average of 96.50, including two half-centuries. This marks his first return to the top ten since August 2024.
The past two years have been challenging for Babar, as he struggled with his batting form, which led to his fall from the top 15 and eventually the top 20 in the rankings. Since September 2024, he has managed to score 712 runs across 20 innings, averaging 39.55, with seven fifties but no centuries. His last Test century was recorded in December 2022, when he scored 161 against New Zealand in Karachi.
Babar's highest ranking to date is second, achieved in December 2022. His decline began in July 2023 when he fell out of the top five. He entered the recent series against the West Indies ranked 22nd in the world but improved to 15th after a solid performance in Tarouba, where he scored 23 and an unbeaten 58.
This recent achievement is particularly significant for Pakistan cricket, as the team secured its first Test victory away from home in over three years. Babar's return to form is a crucial development for the team as they look to build momentum in the international Test arena.
In addition to Babar's rise, other Pakistani players also made notable advancements in the rankings. Abdullah Shafique had an outstanding performance, scoring an unbeaten 160 in the first innings, which propelled him 25 places up to 32nd in the Test batting rankings. Meanwhile, Sajid Khan also made strides, moving up five spots to 30th among Test bowlers and climbing to 32nd in the all-rounders' rankings.
As for the overall rankings, Travis Head of Australia continues to hold the top position among Test batters, while Jasprit Bumrah of India remains the leading Test bowler. Ravindra Jadeja, also from India, continues to dominate the all-rounder rankings.
As of August 12, 2026, the ICC Test rankings reflect a competitive landscape, with players like Harry Brook and Joe Root closely trailing Head in the batting category. The ongoing competition among the top players is expected to intensify as teams prepare for future series and tournaments.
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