Abrar Ahmed achieves top spot in ICC T20I Rankings

Lahore: Abrar Ahmed, the 28-year-old Pakistani spinner, has risen to the top spot in the ICC Men’s T20I rankings. With 133 international wickets across 10 Tests, 19 ODIs, and 38 T20Is, Ahmed has finally achieved his dream of representing Pakistan at the top level. His sole focus from the beginning was to don the national colors, and once he did, his ultimate goal became claiming the world number one position.

The Afghan leg-spinner Rashid Khan, who once dominated the ODI bowling rankings, is now ranked second, with a difference of 39 rating points between the two. Abrar made his Test debut against England in December 2022, followed by his ODI debut against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo in November 2024, and his T20I debut against New Zealand in Rawalpindi in April 2024. This season, he has taken 15 wickets in nine T20Is for Pakistan, including six in three matches at home against Australia.

Currently, Abrar is part of the Pakistan squad participating in the Asian Games in Japan. The team is in the final stages of a four-day training session in Karachi, scheduled to conclude on Thursday. Reflecting on his journey, Abrar expressed his pride in becoming the world number one bowler while representing Pakistan. He remains committed to achieving more success, stating that his recent improvements in consistency have been instrumental in his progress.

Ahmed acknowledges the support of his teammates, who have always encouraged him and boosted his confidence. Their unwavering belief in his abilities has played a significant role in his journey. As the Asian Games approach, Abrar aims to perform well, contribute to his team's success, and bring home a gold medal for Pakistan.