The removal of Indian cricket legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from the most recent ICC ODI batting rankings, which were revealed on Wednesday, is a startling occurrence that has left cricket fans perplexed. Rohit and Kohli were ranked second and fourth in the world, respectively, just a week ago. Both players aren't even in the top 100 as of the August 20 update, which has caused a lot of conjecture and misunderstanding on social media.
Even though both of these iconic batsmen are still playing in the ODI format, they have abruptly vanished from the rankings. There is no official retirement or inactivity clause for either player, therefore the move seems to be a mistake or technical issue in the ICC's ranking system.
Both Rohit and Kohli were instrumental in India's triumph at the ICC Champions Trophy in February 2025. India won their first ODI ICC championship in over a decade thanks to a game-winning innings by Rohit in the final. During the group stages, Kohli also showed outstanding form, leading the Indian innings under difficult circumstances, especially at the spin-friendly Dubai International Stadium.
In the ICC ODI batting standings, Rohit was ranked second only to Shubman Gill until last week's update, while Kohli was ranked fourth. According to Wednesday's rankings, Gill is still the top-ranked batter with 756 points, and Babar Azam is now ranked No. 2.
no virat kohli & rohit sharma in the top 10 icc odi rankings only these two are missing.... what's happening- pic.twitter.com/r7XKxutESrRelated stories
— (@cupc4ke77) August 20, 2025
No Rohit Sharma & Virat Kohli in the Updated ICC ODI Rankings. Looks like Retirement announcement is on the cards August 20, 2025— Ajay Ahire (@Ajayahire_cric) August 20, 2025
Why have Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli been removed from the ICC ODI Rankings? pic.twitter.com/TbrotWUfcR— Selfless (@SelflessCricket) August 20, 2025
The ICC is yet to issue a formal statement on the subject, which has fueled the rumors. The rankings are anticipated to be updated in the upcoming release in light of their recent results and active status. Still, it's unclear why India's most successful ODI duo isn't in the world rankings.
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