NEW DELHI, Jan 8: Australia have consolidated their place at the top of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Test rankings following their first 5-0 Ashes sweep over England.

Ricky Ponting's men have stretched their lead to 21 points over England and their 135 points is the highest rating since a modified format was introduced in 2003, the ICC said in a statement on Monday.

Third-placed Pakistan can draw level or overtake England if they beat hosts South Africa 2-0 or sweep the three-Test series starting in Centurion on Thursday.

South Africa remain sixth despite last week's 2-1 home series victory over fourth-placed India. However, victory over Pakistan by two Tests would lift them past fifth-placed Sri Lanka.

Australia's Shane Warne, who retired after the Ashes, has also signed off in style by finding a place in the elite all-rounders' list.—Reuters