Ben Duckett set to open for England in Australia ODIs
Ben Duckett, a seasoned Test opener for England since November 2022, is preparing to take the opening role in the upcoming five-match ODI series against Australia, reported The Telegraph. This strategic move comes after his impressive performance in Test cricket. The upcoming ODI series will provide Duckett with an opportunity to demonstrate his skills as an opener in this format, alongside Phil Salt.
Duckett's ODI debut as opener: A home ground advantage
Duckett's first appearance as an ODI opener could take place at Trent Bridge, his home ground. This will be the inaugural match of the five-game series against Australia scheduled for Thursday. Despite having played 11 ODIs over eight years, Duckett has never opened in this format before, usually batting at three or four. The England team is keen to see if he can replicate his Test cricket success in the 50-over game.
England's long-term plans for Duckett
The decision to promote Duckett indicates a potential alignment between the 50-over and Test teams. Brendon McCullum, set to become the all-format coach from January, has observed Duckett's successful stint as Test opener. Since his Test recall two years ago, Duckett has maintained an average of 44.1 with a strike rate of 89 - statistics that would fit well in the 50-over format. At age 29, he is expected to be at his peak performance level.
Duckett's potential impact on England's ODI strategy
As a left-hander, Duckett would balance the right-handed Salt in the opening partnership. His selection as opener indicates his importance to England's medium-term 50-over plans. In all professional one-day cricket, Duckett averages 38.5 with a strike rate of 100 from 82 games. His record includes an impressive score of 220 not out from just 131 balls in 2016, while batting at number three for England Lions against Sri Lanka A.
