India tops ICC ODI Rankings

India became the number one team in the ICC ODI Rankings with 128 points after defeating New Zealand by 6 wickets in the ongoing tri-series at the R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo on Friday.

A disciplined India spanked New Zealand by six wickets in a drab low-scoring match to book a berth in Monday's final against Sri Lanka, while shoving the Kiwis out of the cricket tri-series in Colombo. 

In a dull match bereft of significant batting pyrotechnics, India showed impeccable discipline to chase down the modest 156-run victory target with aplomb and nearly 10 overs to spare.

For them, Sachin Tendulkar (46), Suresh Raina (45 not out) and captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni (35 not out) came up with useful knocks as they cruised to 156 for four in 40.3 overs, sending the Kiwis out of the tournament after their second successive defeat.

Opting to bat first in the must-win game, New Zealand had earlier folded for 155 in 46.3 overs with Ashish Nehra (3/24) and Yuvraj Singh (3/31) mowing down the top and middle order.

Skipper Daniel Vettori topscored with 25, while Jacob Oram contributed 24.

It is for the first time India has claimed number one in ODI's since the rankings were introduced in October 2002.

India replaced South Africa by just one ratings point but if they lose the match on Saturday against the hosts Sri Lanka, they will again come on number two spot in the one-day rankings with 126 points.