Sutherland becomes No.1 T20I bowler without playing for 5 months
In a remarkable turn of events, Australia Women all-rounder Annabel Sutherland has achieved the unthinkable – becoming the number 1-ranked T20I bowler without playing a single match for 5 months. This feat is all the more astonishing considering that her closest rival, Pakistan’s Sadia Iqbal, was recently in action against Ireland Women. So, how did Sutherland manage to pip Iqbal to the top spot?
The answer lies in Iqbal’s underwhelming performances against Ireland Women in the recently concluded series, which Pakistan lost 1-2. Despite having an opportunity to close the gap with Sutherland, Iqbal’s mediocre showings in the series ultimately led to her downfall from the top spot.
For Sutherland, the journey to the top of the rankings was a relatively quiet one. She last played a T20I match in March, and since then, there have been no international matches for her. However, her impressive performances in the past have earned her enough points to maintain her position at the top.
The change in the rankings came about due to the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) points system, which takes into account a player’s performances over a certain period. In this case, the points were updated after the conclusion of the Ireland-Pakistan series, which led to Iqbal’s slide down the rankings.
Sutherland’s rise to the top of the rankings is a testament to her consistent performances over the past year. She has been one of the most successful bowlers in the T20I format, with a impressive economy rate and a knack for taking wickets. Her ability to adapt to different conditions and opposition has made her a valuable asset for the Australian team.
Iqbal, on the other hand, has struggled to maintain her form in recent times. Despite being a talented bowler, she has failed to deliver in big matches, which has cost her dearly in the rankings. Her poor showings against Ireland Women were the final nail in the coffin, as she was unable to close the gap with Sutherland.
Sutherland’s achievement is all the more remarkable considering the current state of women’s cricket. With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, international cricket has come to a standstill, leaving many players like Sutherland without a platform to showcase their skills. However, Sutherland’s success is a reminder that hard work and dedication can pay off, even in the face of adversity.
As the women’s game continues to evolve, Sutherland’s achievement serves as a timely reminder of the talent and depth available in the women’s game. Her rise to the top of the rankings is a testament to her abilities and her commitment to the sport.
In conclusion, Sutherland’s achievement of becoming the number 1-ranked T20I bowler without playing a single match for 5 months is a remarkable feat that highlights her consistency and talent. Despite the challenges faced by women’s cricket, Sutherland’s success is a beacon of hope for the future of the game.
