Summary
Jamie Smith has been chosen to open the batting for England's cricket team in their ODI match against the West Indies, marking his first time opening in this format. This change comes as Harry Brook takes over as the new full-time white-ball captain, with England looking to improve their recent performance in international cricket.
Key Facts
- Jamie Smith will open the batting for England in their ODI match against the West Indies, alongside Ben Duckett.
- This match marks Harry Brook's first as the full-time white-ball captain of the England team.
- Jos Buttler, a former captain, is back in the team as the wicketkeeper and will bat at number five.
- Jamie Smith has previously opened in first-class and T20 matches but has not done so in List A cricket.
- England is aiming to enhance their performance after seven consecutive ODI losses.
- Injuries have left England without bowlers Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, and Gus Atkinson for this series.
- England needs to maintain a top-nine world ranking by 2027 to secure automatic World Cup qualification.
- West Indies also aim to focus on qualifying for the 2027 World Cup and have recently drawn a series against Ireland.
