DUBAI: South Africa have moved to the top of the International Cricket Council (ICC) one-day rankings for the first time in five years, the Proteas climbing above Australia following their 2-0 series win in New Zealand.

The last time South Africa headed the ODI rankings was in September 2009 but they slipped down the standings after their first round elimination from the ICC Champions Trophy at home later that month.

South Africa trailed Australia by one point before the three-match ODI series against New Zealand and though the third and final match in Hamilton was washed out on Monday, the 2-0 result was enough to take them up to the top of the table.

The number one ranking comes as a welcome boost for the side ahead of the 50-over World Cup being held in Australia and New Zealand early next year.

Reigning world champions India are in third spot while 2011 runner-up Sri Lanka are next with four points separating the top four nations.

South Africa captain A.B. de Villiers also retained top spot in the batting rankings with team mate Hashim Amla overtaking India’s Virat Kohli to claim second.

ODI team rankings (as on Oct 28):

1. South Africa 115 rating points;

2. Australia 114; 3. India 113; 4. Sri Lanka 111; 5. England 107; 6. Pakistan 98; 7. New Zealand 96; 8. West Indies 96; 9. Bangladesh 69; 10. Zimbabwe 58; 11. Afghanistan 42; 12. Ireland 33.

Published in Dawn, October 29th , 2014