Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has expressed his displeasure about the ICC ranking system and said that India is the most competitive side.
Gambhir questioned Australia’s rise to number one ranking in Test cricket saying that India had a greater impact in the recent past especially with their victory in Australia.
In the recent ICC rankings, Australia moved to the top after retaining the Ashes in England and an unbeaten home season. India, who was at the top for 42 months straight, was moved to the third position.
“India has yielded the top spot for the first time since October 2016. This is largely because India had won 12 Tests and lost just one Test in 2016-17, the records of which were removed in the latest update,” an ICC statement said. It happened after the 2-0 loss in New Zealand, while Australia beat both the Kiwis and Pakistan at home.
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Speaking on the Cricket connected show on Star Sports Gambhir said that he doesn’t believe in the points and ranking system. “No, I am not surprised (India slipping to No. 3). I don’t believe in points and ranking system. Probably the worst was there in the World Test Championship… that you win the same points when you win a Test match away from home. That’s ridiculous.”
He lashed out at Australia moving up the ranks by saying that they were pathetic away from home especially in the subcontinent. “For me, India should be there (No. 1) because Australia… I have serious doubts On what front have you given Australia the No. 1 ranking? They have been absolutely pathetic away from home, especially in the sub-continent.”
Gambhir however, lauded the BCCI’s decision to agree to tour Australia if players can go through a mandatory quarantine period as they land in the island.
“Good on the BCCI. Fabulous. This is a very, very positive sign. They are probably looking at the bigger picture, it will change the mood of the country. Winning the series is a different thing, it’s very important but it will probably change the mood of both the countries as well. Not only India but probably for Australia,” he said.
