DUBAI – It seems the Pakistani cricket team is in the midst of a change,and a positive one at that. Following the win against Australia in thefinal of the tri-series and a 5-0 win over Zimbabwe, the national side iswinning seemingly tougher games with ease, as well as running over weakeroppositions effortlessly.

Thanks to a solid opening pair in the shape of Fakhar Zaman andImam-ul-Haq, the team has stabilized and big scores are being put on thescorecard. Not only that, the bowling department has also been impressivein restricting oppositions as well.

Good overall performances in the one-day international format has helpedPakistan’s ranking as well. The Greens have now moved to 5th position, onebetter than Australia, who has also played the same number of games.Position Team Matches Points Ranking1 England 51 6,470 1272 India 48 5,819 1213 South Africa 34 3,842 1134 New Zealand 41 4,602 1125 Pakistan 37 3,844 1046 Australia 37 3,699 1007 Bangladesh 25 2,339 948 Sri Lanka 43 3,302 779 West Indies 30 2,032 6810 Afghanistan 28 1,758 63

Pakistan now has a better ranking and points tally than Australia, thanksto a superb showing in the latest series against Zimbabwe. England remainon the top after a crucial series against India, who are placed firmly inthe second spot.

South Africa, after losing to India lost a fair share of points but stillsit ahead of New Zealand in the table.

Pakistan’s next one-day international series is against New Zealand, whichwill be a home series. Before that, Pakistan will fight it with Sri Lanka,Bangladesh, Afghanistan and India in the Asia Cup.