Following a dip in Steven Smith’s performance, Joe Root has risen to the 2nd spot in the ICC Test batting rankings, trailing behind Kane Williamson of New Zealand. Smith’s recent struggles saw him drop below 800 points for the first time since 2014, benefiting Root who showcased his form with a century against India in Ranchi last month.

Smith’s decline coincides with his new role as Australia’s Test opener, with scores of 31 and 0 in the recent Test against New Zealand further contributing to his fall. Meanwhile, Marnus Labuschagne, another former top-ranked batter, exits the top ten after a dismal performance, alongside Tr

Root Surges, Smith Slips: Dramatic Changes in ICC Test Rankings

19 innings without a Test ton ✖️
First time with a sub 800 rating since 2014 📉
Joe Root takes his spot at 2nd in the latest ICC rankings 🔁

Will we see Steve Smith get back to peak form soon? #NZvAUS pic.twitter.com/TEDdLmcOmK

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) March 6, 2024

In contrast, India’s batters see an upward trend, with Yashaswi Jaiswal breaking into the top ten for the first time amid his impressive series against England. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli also make gains in the rankings, despite Kohli’s absence from recent matches due to the birth of his child.

Cameron Green emerges as a significant climber in the batting rankings after his match-winning 174 not out against New Zealand, catapulting him 22 places to 23rd position. Meanwhile, Williamson maintains his lead with a comfortable margin over Root, thanks to his exceptional record of seven centuries in his last eight Tests.

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On the bowling front, Nathan Lyon’s stellar performance against New Zealand propels him to 6th place in the rankings, while Glenn Phillips and Matt Henry also see notable improvements. Additionally, Ireland’s maiden Test victory against Afghanistan brings positive movements in the rankings for Mark Adair and several other players.