The recent ICC ODI batting rankings show a notable dip for four of India’s leading batsmen: Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma. All have recorded double-digit point deductions after the team’s opening match loss to Australia in Perth. Gill saw his points fall by 16, Iyer by 13, Kohli by 12, and Sharma by 11. This ranking erosion stems directly from India’s underwhelming batting display in the first ODI of the three-match series. The game, reduced to 26 overs per side due to rain, saw India falter significantly after being put in to bat by Australia at the Optus Stadium. A poor start with early wickets, including Shubman Gill’s dismissal and Virat Kohli’s rare failure to score (a duck), led to India posting a paltry 136/9. Australia’s response was clinical, reaching the target with seven wickets in hand. The rankings serve as a direct reflection of this performance, emphasizing that form and performance under pressure are key determinants. The slump in points for these key Indian batters puts added pressure on them to perform in the upcoming fixtures and maintain their standing in the competitive world of international cricket.
