Linsey Smith Becomes Number One Bowler Ahead of Womens T20 World Cup

Dubai, June 2: England’s left-arm spinner Linsey Smith has reached the top of the ICC Women’s T20 International bowling rankings for the first time in her career, just before the Women’s T20 World Cup.

The 31-year-old player secured the number one spot by outperforming Pakistan’s Sadia Iqbal, following impressive performances against New Zealand and India. Smith earned this accolade after being named Player of the Series for her outstanding display against the White Ferns and delivering another remarkable performance in England’s recent victory over India in Bristol.

Linsey Smith made her international debut in 2018 but faced a long absence from the national team. After solidifying her place as a regular member of England’s T20 squad late last year, she now enters the World Cup as the highest-ranked bowler in this format.

England’s strong showing is reflected in the bowling rankings, with fast bowler Lauren Bell climbing one spot to third place. Stand-in captain Charlie Dean also improved her position, moving up two places to fifth.

India’s emerging spinner, Sri Charani, has been one of the biggest beneficiaries in the latest rankings. After taking three wickets against England, Charani climbed seven spots to reach fourth place. The competition for the number one spot remains thrilling, with only a 39 rating points difference among the top ten bowlers.

In the batting rankings, Australian opener Georgia Voll maintains her top position. Meanwhile, several players outside the top ten have made significant improvements.

India’s Jemimah Rodrigues has jumped four places to tie for 11th position after her stellar batting performance. Ireland’s all-rounder Orla Prendergast climbed ten spots to jointly hold the 16th position, following her unbeaten 71-run match-winning innings against the West Indies in Dublin. This Irish star also achieved success in the all-rounders’ rankings, moving up one spot to sixth.

On the other hand, Bangladeshi captain Nigar Sultana has risen four places to secure the 20th position in the batting rankings. Pakistan’s opening batter Muniba Ali climbed two spots to jointly hold the 32nd position.