He leapfrogs R Ashwin and James Anderson to take the top slot
Dale Steyn grabbed five wickets to lead South Africa to a 204 run-win over New Zealand in the second test at Centurion on Tuesday.
South Africa were 105 for six at the close, an overall lead of 372 runs on a pitch at Centurion's SuperSport Park on Monday.
Faf du Plessis scored a fifth test century before his bowlers ripped through the New Zealand top order to leave South Africa firmly in charge after day two of the second test at Centurion on Sunday.
Half-centuries from Quinton de Kock, Stephen Cook, Hashim Amla and JP Duminy help home side go to stumps at 283/3.
South Africa batsmen look to trump New Zealand bowlers at series decider second and final Test at SuperSport Park in Centurion.
The first test between South Africa and New Zealand ended in a damp draw on Tuesday without a ball bowled at Kingsmead.
A wet outfield again prevented play on the fourth day of the first test between South Africa and New Zealand in what is becoming an increasing embarrassment for the hosts.
A wet outfield washes out third day of the first Test between South Africa and New Zealand at Kingsmead on Sunday.
Dale Steyn announced his return to the Test match arena in emphatic style with a two-wicket new ball burst on the second morning of the first Sunfoil Test match against New Zealand at Sahara Stadium Kingsmead.
