England's ODI tri-series in Pakistan becomes crucial World Cup preparation
England launch a three-team ODI series in Pakistan, a key chance to sharpen 50-over skills before the upcoming World Cup.
Harry Brook's England side kicked off a one-day international tri-series in Rawalpindi, meeting Pakistan and Sri Lanka with a final scheduled for Lahore. The series is seen as essential preparation for the World Cup starting in less than a year, given England's limited domestic exposure to the 50-over format. Data from The Cricketer indicate that since December 2023 England fielded 40 ODI players who together logged only 84 domestic one-day matches, a stark contrast to other full members.
Joe Root highlighted that this scarcity hampers player development and understanding of the format. Recent victories over Sri Lanka and India have raised confidence, and the competition offers valuable experience, especially with Jos Buttler sidelined and Jofra Archer rested.
