Following the end of year calculation of the official 2014 WBSC World Baseball Rankings, the top 12 nation's from across the globe have secured a place in this inaugural international baseball showcase as they battle for the world title against baseball's elite sides.

"WBSC congratulates the 2015 Class of Premier 12 nations and the athletes who helped lift their countries to be among the Top 12," said WBSC President Riccardo Fraccari.

"These nations represent baseball's best that will unite and deliver an exciting - and unmatched competitive parity - at the inaugural Premier 12.

"Any one of these elite nations can come out victorious in 2015 and leave The Premier 12 as the reigning world champion."

The unveiling of the World Baseball Rankings brings a story in itself as the Japanese, Samurai Japan, take the top spot for the first-time ever.

Japan have moved atop the WBSC World Rankings for the first time ever as they top baseballs powerhouses of United States and Cuba ©Getty Images



Cuba had dominated the world rankings since their inauguration in 2009, holding the number one position until 2013, when it was taken over by the United States.

In the latest rankings, the US move down a place into second and Cuba fall to third.

They are followed by Chinese Taipei, The Netherlands, Dominican Republic, Canada, South Korea, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Italy and Mexico.

All WBSC's World Championship platforms - from the under-12, under-15, under-18 and under-21 Baseball World Cups to the 2013 World Baseball Classic and sanctioned international competitions - have shaped the rankings and qualification into the 2015 Premier 12.

The logo of the Premier 12 tournament, and the dates of competition, will be unveiled shortly.

Following the conclusion of next year's flagship World Championships, the competition will follow a four year cycle, with the next tournament scheduled for 2019.

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