Former West Indies coach and player Phil Simmonds has welcomed the inclusion of Ireland and Afghanistan who have recently been granted test cricket status.

Simmons who was recently appointed technical consultant for the Afghanistan team believes both countries have earned the right to jostle with traditional nations in the longest format of the game and hailed the move as a positive one for the sport.

While admitting that the teams may not necessarily be at the highest standard, the former West Indies coach –  believes playing is the only way for the teams to really improve.

The current one day international standings sees Australia on top, above India in second place followed by south Africa in third spot, new Zealand and ICC Champions Trophy winners Pakistan rounds out the top five.

The West Indies sits in ninth place, below Bangladesh in 7th and Sri-Lanka in eight place, with new comers Afghanistan at tenth ,…while  Zimbabwe at 11th and Ireland 12 completes the full ODI standings.