Sat Feb 15 13:27:34 UTC 2025: ## Shubman Gill Poised to Top ICC ODI Rankings with Strong Champions Trophy Performance
**Dubai:** Indian batsman Shubman Gill is on the brink of claiming the number one spot in the ICC ODI batting rankings. A stellar performance in the upcoming Champions Trophy could propel him past current leader Babar Azam of Pakistan.
Gill currently sits in second place with 781 rating points, just five points behind Babar Azam’s 786. While Babar struggled in the recent tri-series final, managing only 62 runs at an average of 20.67 across three matches, Gill impressed with 259 runs at an average of 86.33 against England, including two fifties and a century.
Babar Azam first reached the top of the ODI rankings in 2021, surpassing Virat Kohli’s record 1258-day reign. He regained the top spot in December 2023 after the ODI World Cup, pushing Gill to second. However, Gill’s recent strong form, coupled with Babar’s comparatively weak performance in the tri-series, has significantly narrowed the gap, making the Champions Trophy a pivotal tournament for the rankings. This will be the final ICC tournament for all three players, according to commentator Akash Chopra.
This news is accompanied by other sports news including updates on the Indian Champions Trophy team selection, controversies surrounding team choices, and other international cricket matches. Other news items include reports on political arrests, awards, and various other national and international updates.
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