KINGSTON, April 2: South Africa earned a US$175,000 bonus on Sunday for topping the ICC One-day International rankings at the annual cut-off date for the first time. Australia, in second place, will pocket $75,000 for being the runner-up. Australia remain on top of the Test rankings.

Sunday's achievement marks the end of a great 12 months of one-day cricket for South Africa.

Graeme Smith's side assumed first place from Australia last month following an outstanding run of results over the past year, which saw the team win 15 of its 21 ODIs ahead of the World Cup and three out of four matches since the tournament began.

It was the first time a side has overtaken Australia in the table since the listings began in October 2002.

Although South Africa lost to Ricky Ponting's men in their Group A game in St Kitts last week, it was not quite enough to dislodge the Proteas from top spot.

South Africa's one-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the Super Eights stage in Guyana on Wednesday proved to be the result that took them over the top, giving them an unassailable if wafer-thin lead at the top of the ladder.

“I'm delighted that we are top of the ODI Championship and I think it is a just reward for all the hard work and dedication the guys have shown over the past 18 months or so,” said South Africa captain Graeme Smith.—AFP