India returned to the top of the ICC men’s T20I rankings on September 22, 2026. The move came after their two-run win over Japan in a rain-hit five-over-per-side match at Sano International Cricket Ground.
The match was heavily affected by Typhoon Dujuan. Persistent rain and a wet outfield made a full 20-over game impossible. Officials reduced the contest to five overs per side.
India scored 32 for four from their five overs. Japan used only spinners during India’s innings. The bowling plan kept India’s scoring under control on a difficult surface.
However, Japan could not chase the target. They finished two runs short of India’s total. Shreyas Iyer was named Player of the Match for his useful contribution with the bat.
The result also had an impact on the ICC rankings. England had moved to number one two days earlier after completing a 3-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka. India’s victory helped them reclaim the top position.
India and England level on rating
India now have a rating of 269. England also have a rating of 269. However, India lead the rankings because of their higher overall points tally.
India have 17,480 points from 65 matches. England have 11,021 points from 41 matches.
The match retained its official T20I status despite being reduced to five overs. The result was therefore included in the latest ICC rankings update.
The fixture was played under the Suzuki Cup. The series was organised to mark 75 years of diplomatic relations between India and Japan. It was also the first international cricket meeting between the two countries.
Both teams are preparing for the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya. The match therefore provided important preparation ahead of the tournament.
India’s victory gave them another boost as they returned to the top of the men’s T20I rankings. Australia, New Zealand and South Africa complete the top five, while Pakistan, West Indies, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan make up the rest of the top 10.
