Australia returns to No. 1 ranking in test cricket

SYDNEY (AP) — Australia has returned to the No. 1 ranking in test cricket for the first time since 2009, edging ahead of South Africa after back-to-back series wins over England and the Proteas.

Michael Clarke's Australian lineup gained eight rankings points to move to 123, fractionally better than South Africa, and 19 points clear of third place England.

The Australians are also atop the one-day international rankings.

Clarke says; "We are incredibly proud to be the No. 1-ranked team in test and ODI cricket in the world, which are two of the team's most important goals."

South Africa dropped from 127 to 123 points, losing the top test spot for the first time since August 2012.

India slipped from third to fifth, with Pakistan moving up a spot to No. 4.