Australia lose top ODI ranking after New Zealand defeat

WELLINGTON, Feb 18 (Reuters) - South Africa have taken over from Australia as the world's top-ranked team in one-day international cricket after New Zealand took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the Chappell-Hadlee series in Auckland today.

The hosts chased down Australia's total of 336 for a second straight victory in the best-of-three series to demote the visitors from the top of the rankings for the first time since they were introduced in October 2002.

South Africa recently beat Pakistan 3-1 in a home one-day series to edge closer to the Australians, who were also beaten by England in the tri-series finals at home a week ago.

REUTERS DH PM1135