Chakaravarthy’s stellar Asia Cup 2025 performances, including economical spells against UAE and Pakistan, propelled him to the top of the world bowling rankings
Dubai
India’s mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy has climbed to the No. 1 spot in the ICC T20I bowlers’ rankings, overtaking New Zealand’s Jacob Duffy. This is the first time the 34-year-old has reached the top, making him only the third Indian bowler after Jasprit Bumrah and Ravi Bishnoi to hold this prestigious position.
Chakaravarthy’s rise came after his fine performances in the Asia Cup 2025. In the opening game against the UAE, he bowled a superb two-over spell, conceding only four runs and taking one wicket. Against Pakistan in India’s next Group A clash, he bagged one wicket while keeping his economy rate at an impressive six runs per over. His consistency has pushed him to the summit of world rankings.
India now enjoys dominance in both formats, with Jasprit Bumrah ruling as the No. 1 Test bowler, and Chakaravarthy leading the T20I charts. Meanwhile, spinner Kuldeep Yadav also impressed in the Asia Cup, climbing 16 places to reach the 23rd position.
Globally, other bowlers made progress as well. Australia’s Adam Zampa moved up to fourth place, while Sri Lanka’s Nuwan Thushara leapt six spots to secure sixth. Pakistan’s Abrar Ahmed jumped 11 spots to reach 16th, and Sufiyan Muqeem rose to 11th after steady performances.
In the batting list, India’s Abhishek Sharma continues at No. 1 with a career-high 884 rating. England’s Phil Salt and Jos Buttler climbed to second and third.