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England opening batter in Tests, Ben Duckett is reportedly set to open the batting against Australia in the upcoming five-match ODI series. The series is scheduled to commence on Thursday, September 19. Although, both England and Australia are missing some of their key players, more so the Three Lions. The home side, England are looking to build a new team keeping the ODI World Cup 2027 in mind, which will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
Meanwhile, ahead of the five-match series between the rivals, The Telegraph has reported that Ben Duckett, who has played 11 ODI games between 2016 and 2023, might open the batting. The left-hander has proven to be effective at the top of the batting order in Tests for England. His performances in the longest format of the game have reportedly prompted the selectors to give him a chance at the opening slot in ODIs as well.
Ben Duckett likely to open for England in five-match ODI series vs Australia
The 29-year-old, who has played 11 ODI games between 2016 to 2023, has never batted in the top order in the 50-over format. He has recorded two fifties and a hundred at number three and number four respectively. The Kent player has amassed 395 runs averaging 39.50 with a highest score of 107 not out.
Since 2015, the likes of Jason Roy, Alex Hales, Jonny Bairstow, Dawid Malan, among others have opened the batting for England in the 50-over format. England selectors and team management are looking to move on from Roy and Bairstow, the ODI World Cup 2019 winners while the likes of Malan and Hales have retired from international cricket. Phil Salt is reported to open for England alongside Duckett.
England's squad for ODI series against Australia
Harry Brook (c), Jofra Archer, Jacob Bethell, Brydon Carse, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Liam Livingstone, Matthew Potts, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Jamie Smith, Olly Stone, Reece Topley, John Turner.
