England’s clean sweep of three ODI series this year suggests they have begun to recover from a poor run that included a dismal 2023 World Cup and a winless Champions Trophy. With the next World Cup a year away, coach Brendon McCullum says England are planning more 50-over warm-up matches, acknowledging that many players lack experience in the format.

The article highlights questions over Ben Duckett’s inconsistent batting, as Tom Banton and Jacob Bethell offer alternatives at the top of the order; Banton’s century may suit the bouncy South African pitches expected at the World Cup. It also raises concern about leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed, who was dropped for the series decider, while Liam Dawson took three wickets and bowled more consistently to a good length. England have made progress, but still need to address their preparation, batting choices and bowling options.