Cricket

Times

19/09/2024 09:30
County Championship Division One
Lancashire vs Somerset County
Liam Livingstone. Source: reddit.com

Livingstone Takes Top Spot as ICC T20I All-rounder

Liam Livingstone has claimed the No. 1 ranking in the ICC T20I all-rounder list following a remarkable Player of the Series performance against Australia. His exceptional contributions, including 124 runs and five wickets over two matches, propelled him seven places up the rankings, surpassing Marcus Stoinis. Notably, the series finale at Old Trafford was abandoned due to rain.

Having moved up to No. 4 in England’s batting lineup—after previously serving as a finisher during the T20 World Cup earlier this year—Livingstone seized the chance to showcase his skills. He played a pivotal role in securing a series-tying victory with a dazzling 87 runs off just 47 balls in Cardiff.

"I want the responsibility to win games for England, and the higher up the order, the more opportunities you have to do that," Livingstone remarked after scoring 37 runs and taking 3 wickets for 22 runs in the first T20I.

His all-around excellence was further highlighted by significant bowling partnerships with Adil Rashid, which proved crucial in helping England combat Australia’s aggressive starts.

As a result of his outstanding performance, Livingstone has earned a spot in England's ODI squad for the upcoming five-match series against Australia, stepping in for the injured Jos Buttler. Meanwhile, Travis Head has solidified his position as the No. 1 ranked batter, and Adam Zampa has climbed to fifth in the bowling rankings, maintaining a spinner-dominated top six.

 

Read more