Ranking the top 5 teams across formats in 2025

Cricket in 2025 was a busy, trophy-heavy year. This year rewarded depth, clear roles and the ability to win across formats. Looking at major trophies, bilateral form and ICC rankings, five teams stood out above the rest: India, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and England.

1. India 

India sit top of the list because 2025 was theirs in white-ball cricket. The men’s side won the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai, chasing down New Zealand in the final. Rohit Sharma’s match-defining 76 underlined India’s reliance on experienced leaders to steady and accelerate big chases. They also won the Asia Cup trophy, and both of these tournaments were won undefeated.

Beyond the trophy, India concluded the year at the top of the ICC ODI and T20I rankings, reflecting depth across both batting and bowling units and a strong bench that enabled rotation without significant drop-off. India’s strength is simple: world-class top order, multiple match-winning spinners and a clutch of finishers who can decide tight contests.

2. South Africa 

South Africa’s big claim to fame in 2025 was the World Test Championship triumph at Lord’s. This was the watershed moment that removed a long-standing “nearly there” tag from the Proteas. Aiden Markram’s 136 in the final and a collective display of calm batting and incisive seam bowling sealed a five-wicket win over Australia. 

They have also done a great job in the white-ball formats of the game. Although it was not the best year for them, they put up great fights wherever they played. On balance, a WTC trophy elevates them above teams that have only achieved success in white-ball cricket.

3. Australia 

Australia remain a top-three team across formats because they combine the staple of consistent Test performances with potent white-ball options. Their Test pedigree (top of the ICC Test standings for much of the year) and a fast bowling unit that still sets the tone make them dangerous in longer formats. 

Meanwhile, their white-ball depth of batters who can both anchor and explode means they rarely go into tournaments as rank outsiders. Australia’s ability to reload and perform in big moments keeps them firmly in the upper echelon.

4. New Zealand 

New Zealand combined a high ICC ODI ranking with a deep, well-coached squad that reached the Champions Trophy final and pushed India in Dubai. They may not have the star power of India or Australia, but they make up for it with tactical clarity: disciplined bowling plans, fit fielding units and batters who know how to pace innings across formats. 

New Zealand’s strength is squeezing the margin in close games, which is a skill that turns good sides into tournament contenders. Their runner-up finish in the Champions Trophy and strong ODI rating earn them this slot, while also having a fantastic test side.

5. England 

England round out the top five largely on the back of their white-ball credentials. While Test cricket remained inconsistent, England were competitive in limited-overs series and tournaments throughout 2025, driven by an aggressive batting philosophy that still unsettles opponents.

Their ODI and T20I sides continued to back fearless intent, often prioritising impact over conservatism. England’s challenge remained balanced, particularly in Test cricket, where results fluctuated, but their ability to win big white-ball games and remain tactically innovative ensured they stayed among the top teams globally.

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