South Africa’s Keshav Maharaj has displaced Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana, becoming the new No.1 ODI bowler in the world.

The 35-year-old re-claimed his mantle following the latest update to the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s Player Rankings.

“Maharaj returns to the premier ranking spot on the back of his maiden ODI five-wicket haul against Australia in Cairns on Tuesday, with the left-armer gaining two places to climb in front of Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana (second) and India tweaker Kuldeep Yadav (third) on the updated rankings,” noted the ICC.

“The 35-year-old veteran used all his experience to collect figures of 5/33 against Australia, which ensured the Proteas registered an impressive 98-run victory and helped him return to the top of the rankings pinnacle.

“Maharaj first held the No.1 ODI bowler ranking back in November 2023 when he displaced India seamer Mohammed Siraj during the most recent edition of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup and the spinner has maintained a place inside the top five spots on the rankings ever since.”

There is more joy on the rankings for South Africa, with experienced duo Aiden Markram (up four rungs to 21) and Temba Bavuma (up five spots to 23) both gaining ground on the latest list for ODI batters following half-centuries in that opening game of the ongoing series with Australia.

The completion of the T20I series between Australia and South Africa also sees a host of performers from both teams make ground on the latest rankings in T20I cricket.

South African youngster Dewald Brevis jumps nine spots to equal 12th on the list for T20I batters following some eye-catching efforts across the series.