England’s women’s cricket team head into the final stretch of 2025 chasing a familiar target: the top spot of the . After an impressive run in recent years, they currently sit second in the table behind a dominant Australia side. The question now is not whether England are contenders, but whether they can do enough across upcoming series to regain top spot and hold onto it.
The Rankings Picture
As of July, Australia lead the ODI rankings with a rating of 167, maintaining a strong buffer over second-placed England, who trail on 128. India follow closely behind in third with 122 points, while New Zealand and South Africa round out the top five. With Australia currently setting the standard, England must not only win consistently but also do so convincingly to close the point gap.
The three-match ODI series against India this summer was crucial for England. Playing on home turf, they needed a strong performance to prevent India from leapfrogging them and to keep within striking distance of Australia.
England’s Strengths
England boast a well-balanced and experienced side. Tammy Beaumont continues to be a reliable run-scorer at the top of the order, with her 12 ODI centuries making her England’s all-time leader in that category. In the middle order, Nat Scriver-Brunt remains one of the most consistent all-rounders in world cricket.
Bowling-wise, Sophie Ecclestone is a major asset. She holds the No. 1 spot in the ICC ODI bowling rankings and remains a constant wicket-taking threat with her left-arm spin.
Challenges on the Horizon
Despite their pedigree, England face stern tests in the coming months. They will face off against both South Africa and Australia, and the pressure of getting the results they need will be huge. Their depth will be tested too, especially if injuries are picked up.
There’s also the issue of rising competition. India are improving rapidly, for example. If their bowlers can match their batting prowess, they could be in a position to overtake England in the rankings. Meanwhile, Australia’s dominance is expected to continue, so any slip-up by England could see the gap between the two nations widen.
The Bigger Picture
While England are well-placed, they are not in control of top spot. To leapfrog Australia, they must string together a string of dominant wins and hope the leaders slip up. Every match from here on in will matter, and every bonus point will be crucial.
There’s also the added weight of expectation. England’s return to form has generated a buzz, and according to , they remain one of the top picks to challenge Australia for the number one ranking. But expectations alone won’t deliver results.
Conclusion
England have the talent, the leadership, and the experience to finish 2025 as the top-ranked side in women’s ODI cricket. But to do so, they must be flawless across key series and hope Australia lose ground. The margin for error is slim, but the opportunity is there. If England can build on their recent success, they might not only reclaim top spot but hold it into 2026 and beyond.
