Pakistan’s ace spinner Noman Ali has reached a career-high ranking in the ICC Test bowlers’ rankings as he is in joint second place with Australia’s Mitch Starc.
With a rating of 843, Noman has also emerged as the only Pakistani bowler currently in the Top 20.
Throughout 2025, Noman was a key part of Pakistan’s Test bowling attack, most notably starring in home Tests against South Africa. In the first Test in Lahore, he produced a match‑winning performance by taking 10 wickets in the match, including a six‑wicket haul in the first innings.
That Lahore effort was among several standout displays from Noman during the year. Against the West Indies earlier in January, he claimed a five‑wicket haul that contributed significantly to Pakistan’s strong position in the series.
Noman’s 2025 performances also saw him break records for home spinners: he now holds the most six‑wicket hauls by a Pakistan spinner in home Tests, passing the legendary Abdul Qadir with his fifth such six-wicket performance.
The left‑arm spinner’s consistency is also reflected in his recent wicket‑taking spree. Across his last several home Tests, Noman has taken a high volume of wickets at a strong average.
| Rank | Team | Player | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | India | Jasprit Bumrah | 879 |
| 2 | Australia | Mitchell Starc | 843 |
| =2 | Pakistan | Noman Ali | 843 |
| 4 | Australia | Pat Cummins | 841 |
| 5 | New Zealand | Matt Henry | 836 |
| 6 | South Africa | Marco Jansen | 825 |
| 7 | Australia | Scott Boland | 810 |
| 8 | South Africa | Kagiso Rabada | 807 |
| 9 | Australia | Josh Hazlewood | 783 |
| 10 | Australia | Nathan Lyon | 760 |
With continued form and fitness, Noman Ali is expected to remain a central figure for Pakistan in Tests, aiming to challenge for the top spot in the ICC rankings.