Laura Wolvaardt returns to the top spot in the ICC Women's ODI batting rankings for the first time since the 2022 World Cup after putting on a fine performance in the ongoing three-match ODI series against England which is currently level at 1-1. Wolvaardt made steady contributions of 59* and 35 in the first and second ODI respectively to move up by two places in the batting chart. In doing so, she has challenged the dominance of Nat Sciver-Brunt at the top who has now dropped to the number three position. 

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Reflecting on the recent changes in the ICC Women's ODI Batting Rankings

While Laura and Sciver-Brunt manage to hold on to positions one & three respectively, Sri Lanka's Chamari Athapaththu snuck through to claim the number two position in the batting chart. Further on, Perry has leapfrogged to the number four position after smashing a blistering century against India Women in the second ODI helping Australia Women clinch the series 2-0. 

India's Smriti Mandhana performed poorly in the ongoing tour to Australia with her average dropping well below 10. The Indian batter fell by one position in the batting rankings and is currently ranked fifth. Chloe Tryon was another South African player who made rapid advancements in the rankings, ascending eight positions to 17th position joining Ash Gardner of Australia following her score of 45 in the second ODI. 

How are things shaping up for the Laura Wolvaardt-led South African side ahead of the final ODI?

With the series level at 1-1, the stage is set for a cracking showdown at Senwes Park in Potchefstroom. South African Women were blown away in the T20I series and went down without putting on a fight. But this ODI series presents them with an opportunity to conclude the white-ball series on a winning note. Laura has been the pick of the batters in this ongoing ODI series averaging 94 across two innings.