Pakistan’s left-arm spinner Noman Ali has achieved a remarkable milestone, climbing to second place in the ICC Test bowling rankings following his exceptional performance in the first Test against South Africa.
The 37-year-old spinner gained four spots, reaching a career-best 853 rating points, placing him just behind India’s Jasprit Bumrah, who continues to dominate the rankings. This marks Noman’s highest-ever position since making his Test debut, reflecting his consistent performances and match-winning spells in recent series.
In contrast, South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada dropped to fifth place, while New Zealand’s Jacob Duffy now holds the third position.
Among other Pakistani bowlers, Shaheen Shah Afridi showed significant improvement, rising three spots to secure the 19th position with 661 points. Spinner Sajid Khan retained his 21st position, maintaining his steady form. Meanwhile, Mohammad Abbas and Naseem Shah continue to occupy the 27th and 34th spots, respectively.
Hasan Ali held firm at 42nd place, alongside Abrar Ahmed, who remains at 48th. However, not all movements were upward — Khurram Shahzad slipped two places to 66th, and Aamer Jamal dropped three to 74th.
Further down the list, Mir Hamza and Salman Agha declined four and one places, settling at 95th and 96th, while Zahid Mahmood also fell three spots to 100th.
Noman’s rise marks a major achievement for Pakistan cricket, showcasing the growing strength and depth of its spin department. His recent performances have not only solidified his reputation as a dependable match-winner but also positioned him among the world’s elite bowlers in Test cricket.
