Chris Woakes heads into Bangladesh T20 series with eye on ODI World Cup

Chris Woakes in action watched by Mushfiqur Rahim during the third ODI between Bangladesh and England. Photograph: Gareth Copley/Getty Images

Having played three 50-over matches in Bangladesh with an eye on this year’s ODI World Cup, England now play three 20-over matches, also with an eye on this year’s ODI World Cup. Shorter format, similar conditions (indeed, Thursday’s first T20 will be played on the same pitch at Chattogram’s Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium as that last, lost, low-scoring ODI) and a similar focus.

“It does feel a little bit strange, playing a format that isn’t overly necessary right now,” Chris Woakes said on Tuesday. “Nonetheless, you’re playing for England and you want to win.”