New Zealand vs England 2018: 5 things to look out for in ODI series

#2 England’s top-order

When Alex Hales had to be withdrawn from the first two matches of England's home series against West Indies due to his involvement in the brawl which also featured Ben Stokes, it gave Jonny Bairstow an opportunity to establish himself in the ODI team. He grabbed it with both hands, getting back to back hundreds. This meant that Hales had to give up his opening position when he returned to the side and settle for the No 3 spot.

So now, England’s top three consists of three possible openers – Jason Roy, Alex Hales and Jonny Bairstow. Among the three, Bairstow has the experience of batting in the middle order as well. This means there is still some uncertainty regarding each player's best position.

On top of that, Hales had just one half-century in the Australia series which means he has to get some good scores under his belt otherwise Sam Billings, rated highly by followers of English cricket, may also get an opportunity at his expense. So, the composition of the English top-order for the World Cup is yet to be finalized and we could see it taking its final shape in this series.