The International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued the latest men’s Test rankings following the conclusion of the World Test Championship 2023–25.
The latest rankings have been kind to Pakistan’s left-arm spinner Noman Ali, who has broken new ground in his Test career, surging to No. 4. The 38-year-old veteran, who registered a career-best rating of 806 in his last outing against the West Indies, has climbed past elite names like Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, and Marco Jansen to sit just behind Pat Cummins, Kagiso Rabada, and top-ranked Jasprit Bumrah.
Noman’s rise is all the more remarkable given his age and the timeline of his international debut. Since earning his Test cap at 34, he has steadily built a reputation as one of Pakistan’s most reliable bowlers in the longest format, particularly in home conditions. His methodical approach and ability to bowl long spells have proven vital in several of Pakistan’s home victories in recent years.
Latest ICC Test Bowlers Rankings:
| Rank | Country | Player | Points | Career Best Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | India | Jasprit Bumrah | 908 | 908 v Australia at Sydney 2025 |
| 02 | South Africa | Kagiso Rabada | 868 | 902 v Australia at Gqeberha 2018 |
| 03 | Australia | Pat Cummins | 847 | 914 v England at Old Trafford 2019 |
| 04 | Pakistan | Noman Ali | 806 | 806 v West Indies at Multan 2025 |
| 05 | Australia | Josh Hazlewood | 805 | 864 v India at Bengaluru 2017 |
| 06 | Australia | Nathan Lyon | 785 | 812 v Sri Lanka at Galle 2025 |
| 07 | South Africa | Marco Jansen | 783 | 803 v Pakistan at Centurion 2024 |
| 08 | New Zealand | Matt Henry | 782 | 782 v England at Hamilton 2024 |
| 09 | Sri Lanka | Prabath Jayasuriya | 751 | 801 v New Zealand at Galle 2024 |
| 10 | Australia | Mitchell Starc | 745 | 807 v New Zealand at Perth 2019 |
With Pakistan looking to make a mark in the new WTC cycle, Noman Ali’s contributions will be pivotal for Pakistan’s success.
For now, Pakistan’s spin spearhead can take pride in a richly deserved reward for years of patience and performance. In a team still finding its footing, Noman Ali’s rise offers stability and inspiration in equal measure.
