Web Desk: New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry scripted history by claiming the top position in the ICC Test bowlers’ rankings after delivering a magnificent performance. This achievement marks a historic milestone as Henry becomes the first New Zealand bowler to reach the top spot in 36 years.
Furthermore, he has now entered an elite club of cricketers from his country. Henry is only the third bowler from New Zealand to ever head the prestigious ICC Test bowling list.
The right-arm pacer earned his historic rise following a spectacular bowling display against England in the Oval Test match. Henry single-handedly dismantled the English batting lineup by taking a total of 11 wickets during the game.
Specifically, he tore through the opposition to claim five wickets in the first innings. After that, he returned to destroy the batting order again with six wickets in the second innings.
Consequently, his exceptional bowling performance guided New Zealand to a commanding 253-run victory over England. This crucial win also allowed the visiting team to successfully level the Test series.
Due to this match-winning performance, Henry jumped six places in the latest rankings update. He achieved 870 rating points to join Indian speedster Jasprit Bumrah as the joint number one Test bowler in the world.
Meanwhile, veteran England batter Joe Root also made significant gains in the updated standings. Root reclaimed the number one position in the ICC Test batting rankings after playing two resilient knocks during the same match.
He scored 46 runs in the first innings and followed it with 77 runs in the second innings. Because of this consistent performance, Root successfully surpassed England teammate Harry Brook and Australian batter Travis Head to sit comfortably at the top.
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