Ravi Bishnoi, the Indian leg-spinner has now claimed the esteemed No. 1 spot in the ICC T20I bowling rankings. This significant achievement not only marks Bishnoi’s ascendancy but also solidifies India’s dominance, with the nation now reigning supreme in both batting and bowling rankings.
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Indian Double Domination
India’s stranglehold on Men’s T20I cricket reaches new heights as Suryakumar Yadav continues to occupy the No. 1 spot in batting rankings. The dynamic duo of Bishnoi and Yadav exemplifies India’s cricketing prowess, showcasing their supremacy on the international stage and underscoring the depth of talent within the team.
Early Life
Ravi Bishnoi, born on 5th September 2000, hails from the Bishnoi Family in the Birami village of Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Growing up in an environment lacking cricket culture and facilities in West Rajasthan, Bishnoi, along with friends and two coaches, took matters into their own hands. They established the Spartans Cricket Academy, a testament to their determination and passion for the sport.
Overcoming financial difficulties, they personally undertook the construction work to build the academy, where Bishnoi could receive the necessary training. Despite facing setbacks, including being snubbed for U-16 and U-19 trials multiple times, he persevered with the support of his coaches, earning a spot in the U-19 Rajasthan squad. In March 2018, his talent caught the attention of Rajasthan Royals, leading to his selection as a net bowler.
Domestic Career
Ravi Bishnoi’s journey into professional cricket saw him make his Twenty20 debut for Rajasthan in the 2018–19 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on 21st February 2019. Subsequently, he marked his List A debut for Rajasthan in the 2019–20 Vijay Hazare Trophy on 27th September 2019. Recognizing his potential, he was included in India A’s squad for the 2019–20 Deodhar Trophy in October 2019, showcasing his skills at the domestic level.
Indian Premier League (IPL)
Bishnoi’s entry into the Indian Premier League (IPL) came in December 2019 when Kings XI Punjab acquired him in the 2020 IPL auction. His IPL debut on 20th September 2020, against Delhi Capitals, proved memorable as he claimed Rishabh Pant as his maiden wicket, finishing with impressive bowling figures of 1/22 in four overs, despite being on the losing side. Bishnoi’s standout performances in his debut IPL season earned him recognition, finishing with 12 wickets and garnering a nomination for the prestigious Emerging Player award.
Ravi Bishnoi’s Meteoric Rise
The narrative of Ravi Bishnoi’s journey to the top is nothing short of remarkable. Despite making his international debut a mere year ago, the 23-year-old leg-spinner has rapidly ascended the rankings ladder, culminating in a stellar performance during the recent T20I series against Australia. Bishnoi’s consistent contributions have not only earned him the Player of the Series title but also a total of 34 wickets from 21 T20I matches, making him a standout performer for the Indian team.
From U19 Stardom to T20 Glory
Bishnoi’s remarkable ascent traces back to the ICC Men’s Under 19 Cricket World Cup in 2020, where he emerged as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker. Despite facing stiff competition from established bowlers such as Ravindra Jadeja and Yuzvendra Chahal, Bishnoi’s tenacity and impressive economy rate have set him apart as a rising star in India’s cricketing landscape.
Shifts in the Top 10
With Bishnoi’s meteoric rise, the ICC T20I rankings undergo a notable shuffle, seeing Rashid Khan relinquish his top spot to the Indian spinner. Axar Patel, another formidable talent in the Indian spin department, makes a significant leap by climbing 16 places to secure the 11th position. The dynamic changes within the top 10 underline the evolving and competitive nature of T20I bowling.
World Cup Aspirations
Bishnoi’s exceptional performance not only secures his place as the No. 1 bowler but also serves as a compelling argument for his inclusion in the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2024. As the competition for spinners’ slots intensifies, Bishnoi’s recent displays have positioned him as a strong contender for a crucial role in India’s quest for T20 glory on the global stage.
Other Indian Performances
While Bishnoi rightfully commands the spotlight, other Indian players continue to make their mark. Ruturaj Gaikwad’s steadfast performances secure his 7th position in the ICC Batting Rankings, showcasing consistency in the recently-concluded T20I series. Despite being sidelined due to injury, Hardik Pandya holds onto the 3rd spot in the ICC T20I All-rounders’ ranking, a testament to his enduring all-round prowess.
