The annual points update takes Pat Cummins’ side to 124, four above the team they beat in the World Test Championship final at The Oval last summer.

England, who drew the Ashes 2-2 against Australia before losing 4-1 in India, lie just two points ahead of fourth-placed South Africa with 105.

Only nine teams were awarded official ranking status this time, with Ireland, Afghanistan and Zimbabwe all failing to play the minimum requirement of eight Tests in the last three years.

Australia have failed to leapfrog India in the ODI table, despite beating them in the World Cup final in November. India’s lead has actually increased from three to six points in the revised standings, with England still fifth following the moribund defence of their 2019 title.

Jos Buttler’s side have also slipped from second to third in T20 cricket ahead of the World Cup in June, but will head into the tournament as reigning champions following their success Down Under in 2022.