ENG vs SA 2025: Keshav Maharaj in a 'wonderful place' as No. 1 ODI bowler

South Africa's Keshav Maharaj rose to the No. 1 spot of the Men's ODI bowling rankings after a commanding performance (4/22 in 5.3 overs) in the first ODI of the three-match series against England. Maharaja's rating of 690 (as of September 2) has taken him above Maheesh Theekshana on second spot.

In fact, none of the left-arm spinner's compatriots are in the top 20 of the rankings for the time being. Lungi Ngidi and Kagiso Rabada are the next South Africans in the list. The most-recent four-wicket haul of Maharaj was his third in the format.

Maharaj secured the Player of the Match accolade for his impressive outing with the ball. He shared that he had tweaked his bowling a fair bit over the recent past by observing some other spinners across the globe. The 35-year-old, however, admitted that the team remained in a period of change.

" [I] thought [it] was a really good wicket. Little bit of nibble and fortunately our bowlers managed to utilise that. We know the English lads play extremely well in their conditions and so good to see the guys put their plans to fruition today. I have looked at some of the best in the world and sort of managed to make minor changes and it has paid dividends. We are in a wonderful place but we are still in transition. Good to see the guys put their hands up in every single game we play," stated Maharaj, during the post-match presentation ceremony.

South Africa secured a comprehensive seven-wicket win with 175 balls to spare in Headingley. Wiaan Mulder (3/33 in seven overs) complemented Maharaj's performance in the first innings. In the second-half, Aiden Markram (86 off 55) led the charge with a swift innings which comprised 13 fours and two sixes.

Markram's opening partner Ryan Rickelton on the other hand, remained unbeaten on 31 off 59 while anchoring the chase. All three of the Proteas' wickets were scalped by Adil Rashid (3/26 in 3.5 overs). Three T20Is will follow the two remaining ODIs. The upcoming second match of the series will be played on Thursday, September 4 at the Lord's, London.