- Video
-
Club Roar
Captured a great grassroots sporting moment? We want to see it!Content Collections
The Roar Community
- Join
- Login
The number one team in the ICC Test Championship has changed six times in 2016, the first time this has happened since the ranking system was introduced in 2003.
This year South Africa handed the number one ranking to India after losing to England in January.
Since then it has gone to Australia, back to India, to Pakistan and now back to India again.
It looks likely the Indians will finish 2016 as the number one side, with their only remaining Tests coming against an English side that is struggling against a trio of world-class spinners.
Their next Test opponent, in early 2017, is Bangladesh, followed by what could be a challenging series at home against Australia. But there is no doubt that the Indians will be favoured against the Aussies, given the latter’s checkered history on the subcontinent.
There is, however, some doubt as to whether India can win away from home. Over the past seven years, they have failed to win an away series against the top sides, even Sri Lanka who play in conditions that should suit the Indian spin attack. And while they have been able to produce one or two decent fast bowlers, you could argue that there are guys playing grade cricket in Australia or South Africa who are more equipped to play Tests.
Their next real hurdle away from home comes late next year, when they travel to South Africa for a series that may decide who finishes 2017 as the number one side. Until then only the Aussies have the chance to stop them.
Who do you think is the number one team?
Build your own fantasy cricket team and put it to the test with Draftstars daily fantasy competitions. Pick your match, pick your team and watch the points roll in to take out cash prizes on each match. What are you really gambling with? Set a deposit limit.