Monday 1 February 2016 07:37, UK
Chris Jordan demonstrated his all-round ability in England's 163-run trouncing of South Africa A - but still faces a battle to be selected for the start of the forthcoming one-day international series.
Jordan, with three wickets, three slip catches and 33 unbeaten runs from just 14 deliveries, was the best of a clutch of handy contributions to back up James Taylor's 116, as England piled up 368 for seven and then bowled their hosts out in just 30.5 overs.
However, Jordan could sound only hopeful rather than expectant that he will be included again for the first of five one-day internationals against South Africa in Bloemfontein on Wednesday.
With Joe Root and Ben Stokes among the four Test stars rested on Saturday and available to return, even Taylor - who has been in outstanding 50-over form for the past six months - cannot be sure of his place.
"I guess what I did can't do me any harm," said the Sussex seamer. "There are a lot of quality guys sat on the bench here, and I guess that shows the depth of the squad and how strong we are at the minute. That can only be good for England."
Whoever makes the cut to start the series against South Africa, the tourists showed in their only warm-up match that they have the batting resources right down the order to stay on the front foot, even if wickets fall quickly.
Jordan added: "We lost two earlyish wickets but with the depth in our batting, guys can always keep going throughout the innings and keep putting pressure on the opposition.
"There are so many guys in the hutch that can clear the rope at the back end."
Jordan is one of three players in England's current squads to have put himself forward for next weekend's Indian Premier League auction. If successful, he will miss the beginning of the domestic season in April and May - but he believes it is an opportunity he must take.
"As a side, we're looking to improve our one-day game," he said. "I saw with a couple of guys who went to the Big Bash, how beneficial it was for them.
"So by playing in these bigger tournaments, putting yourself under as much pressure as possible, it can only benefit the side."
Like Jos Buttler and Sam Billings, if he goes to the IPL it will be with England's blessing after discussions with coach Trevor Bayliss.
"Conversations did go on," said Jordan. "Obviously, he [Bayliss] is the boss - so we felt it would be a good opportunity if I get picked up."
