Ben Duckett, England’s Test opener, has expressed his belief that his versatile skillset could complement the team’s big-hitting batters in their quest to retain the T20 World Cup crown in June. While England boasts an array of players who can effortlessly clear the boundary, Duckett’s approach focuses on field manipulation and piercing the gaps, demonstrating that brute force is not the only path to success. The absence of Ben Stokes, who played a crucial role as a T20 anchor in England’s triumphant 2022 campaign, has left a void in the middle order. Duckett, who possesses a strike rate of 145 in 12 T20 internationals, could fill this void, despite having often been on the fringes of the setup. ‘The beauty of what I do is different to a lot of guys,’ Duckett told the PA news agency. ‘That aspect of not necessarily having the power, but I can use my skills to find ways to get on top. I’m 29 now and I’m not going to try to be someone I’m not just to try to get into a side. I’ve worked out over the years if I become the best version of myself, that’s all I can be.’ Duckett’s inclusion could provide a tactical advantage for England. By having a player who can manipulate the field and find gaps, they can maintain a consistent scoring rate without relying solely on power hitting. This approach could prove particularly effective against teams that employ a defensive field, as Duckett’s ability to pierce the gaps and rotate the strike can keep the scoreboard ticking over. England will play four tune-up matches against Pakistan next month before heading to the Caribbean and the United States for the World Cup. The squad for the series and a provisional pack for the World Cup are expected to be announced next week. Duckett remains focused on his performances for Nottinghamshire in the Vitality County Championship and T20 Blast, but he acknowledges the opportunity to represent England. ‘Whatever opportunity I get moving forward in that group is something I’d take with both hands,’ said Duckett. ‘If I don’t get picked then I don’t get picked. There are a list of players knocking on that door. It’s not like it’s me and a couple of others, there are 10 or 15 lads who could come into that side and perform at that level. That is the beauty of English cricket, so I guess we’ll see.’
Duckett’s Alternative Skillset Could Complement England’s Big-Hitters in T20 World Cup Defense
