Hashim Amla. Photo Reuters
Michael Clarke has been usurped as the No.1 ranked
batsman in test cricket by prolific South African Hashim Amla.
Just hours after collecting a fourth Allan Border Medal on
Monday night following a stellar 2012 campaign, Clarke was
bumped down to No.2 as Amla made it a South African clean
sweep of the test rankings.
Fast bowler Dale Steyn strengthened his lead at the top of
the bowling list after claiming 11-60 in South Africa's first
test win over Pakistan, while Jacques Kallis remains the
game's preeminent all-rounder.
Amla's elevation to the No.1 test ranking makes him the first
batsman since former Australian captain Ricky Ponting in 2007
to top both the test and one-day batting list at the same
time.
"I am surprised and happy with my position as the No.1 ranked
test batsman," Amla said.
"However, I'm also mindful that rankings change quite
regularly.
"It's been a great year for our squad, and to be honest I
still don't think that I am the best batsman in our team.
"What has been most pleasing though for us has been the
all-round contribution from everyone in the squad that has
been the main reason for our success over the last few years.
"... it is always easier to be at the top of your game and
successful when you are part of a winning team.
"Dale and Jacques have been tireless workhorses for the
Proteas and continue to consistently put in quality
performances for our team, it is no wonder that they are at
the top of the bowling and all-rounder rankings."
South Africa's standing as the dominant force in test cricket
is reflected in the rankings, with AB de Villiers and Kallis
joining Amla amongst the top ten batsman, while pacemen
Vernon Philander and Morne Morkel are also in the top ten
list for bowlers.
Clarke is the only Australian ranked amongst the top 20 test
batsmen, with David Warner the next best at No.25.
Test spearhead Peter Siddle has moved up one spot to No.4 in
the bowling ratings, with the injured Ben Hilfenhaus the next
best Aussie at No.10.
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