Aussies could lose top ODI spot for first time

World champions Australia [ Images ] will slip from the top of the International Cricket Council [ Images ] one-day rankings for the first time if they lose their current series in New Zealand [ Images ].

Australia, who lost the first match in the three-match series by 10 wickets in Wellington on Friday, have been top of the table since it was introduced in October, 2002.

In a statement on Friday the ICC [ Images ] said the Australians would be relegated to second place behind South Africa [ Images ] if they lose in New Zealand.

Australia lost the tri-series final to England [ Images ] this month while South Africa defeated Pakistan after beating India [ Images ].

Australia's loss on Friday is their first by 10 wickets in 646 one-day internationals.