Pakistan become No. 1 ODI team for first time in ICC rankings

Pakistan beat New Zealand by 102 runs on Friday in Karachi, to take a 4-0 lead in the ongoing five-match ODI series.

After defeating the Kiwis in the fourth ODI, Pakistan have now climbed up to the number one spot in the ODI team rankings for the first time, since ICC officially recognised the rankings in January 2005. They have bettered their number-three ranking they had achieved in January 2007.

Pakistan were fifth on the ODI rankings before the series started with a rating of 106.

The Men in Green now have rating of 113.483, going past Australia (113.286) and India (112.638). 

However, to remain on top, Pakistan will have to ensure a clean sweep, winning the fifth and final ODI on Sunday, 7 May. A loss in the final ODI will see them slipping back to No.3 and Australia reclaiming their No.1 ranking.

Pakistan will also remain on top if they win the fourth ODI and the fifth match is abandoned or yields a no-result.