DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — The International Cricket Council’s latest Test batting rankings reveal a concerning development for West Indies cricket, with no regional batsman currently positioned within the top 50 globally. This represents a significant setback for the Caribbean team following their recent Test series against New Zealand.
Shai Hope, previously the sole West Indian representative in the elite batting tier, has experienced a substantial decline, dropping 11 positions to 60th place. This demotion occurred despite Hope compiling 255 runs at a respectable average of 42.50 during the series, while battling health complications including an eye infection during the second Test and food poisoning in the final match.
The rankings scenario appears particularly puzzling for Justin Greaves, the series’ top scorer with 283 runs at an average of 56.60, including an unbeaten double-century in the second Test. Despite these performances, Greaves fell one place to 62nd position. Former captain Kraigg Brathwaite, who last represented the West Indies in July against Australia, now occupies the 65th spot.
Several players did achieve notable rankings progressions. Kavem Hodge surged 11 places to 66th following his unbeaten 123 in the third Test’s first innings, while Brandon King made the most dramatic ascent, jumping 27 positions to 73rd after replacing injured opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul and recording half-centuries in both innings of the final Test.
The bowling rankings presented a similarly challenging picture. Veteran pace bowler Kemar Roach, who had climbed to 18th after an impressive opening Test performance, dropped two places to 20th. He remains one position ahead of injured sensation Shamar Joseph, who missed the series. Jayden Seales slipped one spot to 25th, while Alzarri Joseph and spinner Jomel Warrican maintained their positions at 31st and 32nd respectively. Gudakesh Motie remained stationary at 65th, and Roston Chase declined nine places to 67th. Justin Greaves provided the sole positive movement among bowlers, advancing 12 places to 80th position.