Worst Cricket Teams in Cricket History (2025 List)
Cricket has witnessed some of the most memorable matches, greatest rivalries, and incredible talent over the years. However, not every team in the cricketing world has lived up to expectations. Some teams have struggled to find their rhythm, have been ranked low, and have had a disappointing record.
As of November 2025, certain teams are known for their consistently poor performances, both historically and modernly. Whether it’s a weak batting order or a lack of skill, these teams have often languished at the bottom of the global rankings.
In this article, we’ll look at the worst cricket teams in history, focusing on the lowest-ranked teams of 2025, and explore how they got there.
Understanding What Makes a Team “The Worst”
Before we proceed with the list, it’s important to clarify what we mean by “worst.” A team doesn’t become “worst” simply by losing a match, as many teams are in the early stages of their cricket careers or face resource constraints. However, several factors contribute to poor rankings or performance:
- Consistent defeats across all formats
- Lowest ICC rankings
- Embarrassingly low totals in international matches
- Lack of star players or leadership stability
- Failure to qualify for major tournaments
With that perspective, let’s explore which teams are struggling the most in 2025.
Lowest-Ranked Teams (2025)
As of November 2025, the International Cricket Council (ICC) rankings paint a clear picture of which teams are currently ranked at the bottom in men’s ODI cricket.
United Arab Emirates (UAE): The Lowest-Ranked ODI Team in 2025
As of November 2025, the UAE men’s cricket team is ranked at the bottom of the ODI rankings with a rating of just 08, the lowest among all teams in the ICC list.
Batting and Bowling
What Went Wrong?
The UAE has struggled against Full Member nations, often crumbling under pressure. Their top order has failed to build partnerships, and their bowling has lacked grip on flat pitches. Their 57-all-out against India in the Asia Cup 2025 highlighted the growing gap between Associate and Elite teams.
Nepal: A Promising Team Yet to Mature
Nepal is ranked 17th in the ODI rankings with a rating of 30. Despite a passionate fan base and a growing domestic cricket culture, the team is yet to realise its potential for success.
Batting and Bowling
Challenges
Nepal’s cricket infrastructure has improved, but the team lacks experience playing against strong opponents. While they have performed well in regional matches, their performance on the big stage has been inconsistent.
Oman: A Team Struggling to Stay Competitive
Oman has been a regular participant in ICC tournaments, but its performance has declined in recent years. In 2025, the team’s score in an ODI was just 65 runs, reflecting its batting weaknesses.
Batting and Bowling
Reasons for Decline
The main issue with Oman has been inconsistency. Their senior players show flashes of brilliance, but their younger players struggle to adapt under pressure.
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Namibia: A Team in Transition
Namibia made headlines during the 2021 T20 World Cup, but their momentum has now faded. As of 2025, the team has failed to replicate its past success and is ranked 19th in the ODI rankings with 22 rating points.
Batting and Bowling
Reasons for Struggle
Namibia’s small number of talented players and limited funding have made it difficult for the team to compete with the stronger associate nations. However, their fighting spirit and disciplined approach keep them competitive in the shorter formats.
United States (USA): A Work in Progress
The USA cricket team ranks 16th in the ICC ODI rankings with 35 points. Cricket is growing rapidly in America, but the team is still in its development phase.
Batting and Bowling
Overview
American cricket’s infrastructure is improving, but teams are struggling to maintain their momentum. Once professional leagues mature and domestic talent emerges, their global standing could improve.
Recent Poor Team Performances (2025)
The year 2025 saw several notable collapses and record-low performances:
The West Indies, once a cricketing powerhouse, stunned fans by being bowled out for just 27 runs in a Test match, the second-lowest total in Test history. Analysts have described it as the lowest point of the modern cricket era.
Historical Context: Teams with Poor Records
While modern teams like UAE, Oman, and Nepal struggle in 2025. And history also remembers several nations for their weak cricketing records:
- Canada: Struggled to win matches in multiple World Cups (1979–2011).
- Kenya: Once a semifinalist (2003), but declined sharply after internal disputes.
- Zimbabwe: Once competitive, but suffered due to political and financial turmoil.
- Bangladesh (early 2000s): Took years to find consistency after entering Test cricket.
These teams remind us that poor phases are part of cricket’s natural evolution — some eventually rise, while others fade away.
Impact of Weak Teams on Global Cricket
Even though some teams are termed “weak,” their presence plays a vital role in the sport’s global growth.
- Expanding the Game’s Reach: Teams like Nepal, USA, and Oman help promote cricket beyond its traditional powerhouses.
- Inspiring Local Talent: Emerging nations provide opportunities for young players to dream big.
- Diversity in Global Tournaments: The participation of associate teams adds variety to ICC events.
The Future of Associate and Lower-Ranked Teams
The ICC has been investing heavily in global development programs. With exposure to leagues, and international experience, teams are expected to improve steadily.
- Franchise Exposure: Players joining T20 leagues gain valuable experience.
- Increased ICC Funding: Development programs aim to close the gap between associates and full members.
- Youth Development: Grassroots programs in UAE and USA are already showing promising results.
Conclusion
Although the United Arab Emirates currently holds the title of the lowest-ranked men’s ODI team in 2025, it’s important to remember that rankings change over time. Teams like Nepal, Oman, and Namibia are still on the rise and represent the future of global cricket expansion.
The story of the “worst teams” is not one of failure, but of perseverance, learning, and growth. Today’s weakest team can become tomorrow’s greatest force.
FAQs: Questions & Answers
Q1. Who is the lowest-ranked cricket team in 2025?
As of November 2025, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the lowest-ranked men’s ODI team, with a rating of 08 points according to ICC rankings.
Q2. Which team had the worst performance in 2025?
The West Indies recorded one of the worst performances in 2025, getting bowled out for 27 runs in a Test match as the second-lowest score in Test history.
Q3. Which teams have struggled the most historically?
Teams like, Bangladesh (early years) have struggled to remain competitive in global cricket.
