Dhoni climbs to number three in rankings

Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh, the architects of India's ODI series win in Pakistan, have made it to the top ten in the latest ICC rankings for ODI batsmen. Dhoni, who averaged 219 in the series, now occupies the number three slot while Yuvraj, the highest run-getter in the series with 344 runs, is at number nine.

While Adam Gilchrist and Ricky Ponting remain, respectively, the top two, Dhoni's surge has affected the Australian dominance. Prior to the latest rankings, and following the VB Series, the top four slots were occupied by Australian batsmen. Rahul Dravid too moved up a notch to occupy the tenth position.

Irfan Pathan's impressive showing in the series has seen him occupy the fourth place among the bowlers and all-rounders list. Daniel Vettori has moved up two notches to number five among the bowlers.

In the team rankings, India's comprehensive 4-1 series win has placed them at number four, tied with New Zealand at 113 points. Pakistan, meanwhile have slipped to number five. A win in the forthcoming ODI series against England in March-April could propel India to second place. England and Sri Lanka are currently battling for the sixth place. The team that comes seventh will be denied automatic qualification for the Champions Trophy later this year.

For full player rankings see the ICC list..