DUBAI: Pakistan have superseded Australia in the latest International Cricket Council (ICC) ODI rankings, announced on Wednesday.
The Green Shirts moved to fourth place with 103 rating points, replacing Australia after securing consecutive victories over Sri Lanka and England in the opening two matches of the ODI tri-series.
Meanwhile, South Africa retained the third place, having 104 points. India continued to remain at the top position with 115 points closely followed by New Zealand with a difference six rating points.
Pakistan opened their tri-series campaign with a 37-run victory over Sri Lanka. Salman Ali Agha starred with a century, propelling the home side to a big total of 305.
In reply, Sri Lanka were bowled out for 268 in 48.1 overs, chiefly due to impressive bowling from Pakistan fast bowlers. Shaheen Afridi led the bowling charts with a three wicket haul.
In the second fixture against England, Pakistan showcased a dominant all-round display, posting 302-9 in 50 overs after lower-order heroics. Hasan Nawaz top-scored with 79 while Arafat Minhas also made a valuable contribution with 59.
The pair rescued Pakistan from a difficult situation, adding a 78-run partnership for the sixth-wicket, which took the total over 200-run mark.
In pursuit of the target, the visitors were bowled out for 215 in 38.4 overs. Minhas tore through their middle-order and picked up a career-best six wicket haul.
Minhas took 6 for 40 in 8.4 overs and earned the player of match award for his all-round display.