Jos Buttler to move up the order against Netherlands as England look to 2023 Cricket World Cup

Jos Buttler will be used in a new floating role in the middle order during the series against the Netherlands as England attempt to make greater use of his qualities ahead of next year’s World Cup defence in India. 

Buttler has only batted at No 4 in 11 of his 148 ODIs – making two centuries in the position. He has most frequently been used at No 6, including at Lord’s in the 2019 World Cup final, but captain Eoin Morgan hinted on the eve of the series that he is heading for a promotion up the order.

“He has done that previously and we'll assess it as the game goes on and see how his role might evolve,” said Morgan, ahead of the three one-day internationals in Amstelveen. 

Buttler enjoyed a stunning Indian Premier League campaign, scoring 863 runs – the second-highest tally in the competition’s history – as he relished opening the batting. Such form strengthens his case to bat higher up the order for England in ODI cricket. 

AB de Villiers, Buttler’s idol and a cricketer to whom the England star is often compared for his range of shots from a classical base, normally batted at four for South Africa in ODIs, averaging 53.1 there. But in his prime De Villiers was sometimes promoted up to No 3, from where he scored the fastest ever ODI century in 31 balls. 

England’s management recognise that, such is Buttler’s form, the team might be better served moving him up the order even when the side is at full strength, thereby increasing his opportunity to shape matches. 

The three ODIs will be England’s first under Matthew Mott, the new white-ball head coach.

“One of the attributes when thinking about the future of our white-ball game and what the team require is an experienced coach that brings that hunger for success and isn't