Barbadian-born allrounder Jacob Bethell is set to make his international debut for England, having been named in the playing eleven for the upcoming T20I against Australia on September 11 at The Ageas Bowl in Southampton.
The 20-year-old left-hander, who first drew attention as an opening batsman during England’s runner-up campaign at the 2022 Under-19 World Cup, has been rewarded with his senior call-up following an exceptional domestic season.
Bethell’s rise to prominence has been fuelled by standout performances for Birmingham Bears in the Vitality T20 Blast, and Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred. Known for his aggressive approach with the bat, he caught the eye of selectors, particularly with a blistering 15-ball half-century against Northants Steelbacks in June. In another pivotal performance, Bethell’s unbeaten 71 rescued Birmingham Bears from a precarious 10-3, propelling them to 159-5 in their allotted overs – a total they successfully defended.
This call-up marks a pivotal moment in Bethell’s blossoming career, as he takes his place alongside established World Cup winners like fellow Barbadian Jofra Archer and Phil Salt, who also has deep ties to Barbados. With Jos Buttler sidelined due to injury, Salt will lead England’s T20 side, providing an opportunity for Bethell to shine in a youthful squad brimming with potential.
England’s interim coach, Marcus Trescothick, will guide the team through the series as they embrace a new chapter following the recent loss of both the T20 and 50-over World Cup titles. Bethell, one of two debutants alongside middle-order batsman Jordan Cox, represents the fresh talent England hopes to nurture in their white-ball reset.
Speaking ahead of the match, Trescothick shared his excitement about giving young players like Bethell an opportunity on the international stage. “We’re looking at the next generation because we have a bit of time to prepare and expose them so that we can see how they react. We know there’s great talent within the county game, so it’s about picking the right ones we believe can succeed at the international level, as it’s a slightly different game.”
Trescothick added, “It’s really exciting when you see these youngsters coming through, fresh-faced at 19 or 20, knowing the potential they hold. As coaches, the opportunity we have – whether with the Test group or now this one – is to harness that talent.”
England will face Australia in a three-match T20I series followed by five One-Day Internationals, providing the perfect platform for Bethell to make his mark on the international scene.
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