Reports: Ben Duckett to open the next five-match ODI series against Australia

Ben Duckett, a left-hand batsman, is expected to open the forthcoming five-match series against Australia, altering England’s one-day international (ODI) batting lineup.

Although Duckett has never opened in an ODI, he has been a reliable opener for the Three Lions since November 2022. In the eight years that elapsed before his 11 ODI matches, he batted at positions three or four. However, a Telegraph article claims that the national selectors are considering him for this important job in the 50-over format because to his recent outstanding performance in Test cricket.

The 29-year-old left-hander’s first chance to open an ODI could come in the series opener against Australia at Trent Bridge, his home ground. Duckett, meanwhile, is seen by England as a possible long-term fix, with an eye on the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.

Ben Duckett last played an ODI for England in 2023

Duckett may be promoted to the opening position in the 50-over format if Brendon McCullum is appointed as the next all-format coach in January. From his recall two years ago, Duckett has averaged an outstanding 44.1 with a strike rate of 89 as a Test opener. McCullum has seen firsthand the brilliance of Duckett in this role.

Being left-handed, he would provide England with a well-balanced opening duo at the top of the order alongside right-handed Phil Salt. He is compared to the recently retiring Dawid Malan and seasoned openers like Devon Conway and David Warner because of his ability to control innings and make massive hundreds.

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With 82 games played and an average of 38.5, his domestic one-day record is encouraging. His talent in this format was demonstrated in a memorable 2016 England Lions match, as he scored an undefeated 220 off just 131 balls.

England’s squad for ODI series against Australia: