England’s record-breaking one-day international win against South Africa on Sunday offered hope that they can be contenders for the 50-over World Cup in 2027.

The performances of Jacob Bethell, who scored his first century as a professional, and Jofra Archer, who took 4 for 18 in the 342-run win, took the headlines.

But it was the work done by the senior figures of Joe Root, Jos Buttler and Adil Rashid that was perhaps the most significant when it comes to the next World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

All three will be nearing the end of their careers by then, with Root 36, Buttler 37 and Rashid 39.

As such, ensuring all three remain in England’s XI will not be easy.

But it’s essential they are still available by then if England are to have any chance at the tournament,

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