Jacob Bethell Joins England’s Test Squad for New Zealand Tour
England’s Test squad for the upcoming three-match series in New Zealand will feature a mix of established names and a fresh face: 21-year-old all-rounder Jacob Bethell. This will be Bethell’s first appearance with the Test squad after debuting in T20 and ODI cricket earlier in the year.
With Warwickshire as his home team, Bethell’s inclusion fills a gap left by Jamie Smith, who is stepping away for paternity leave. Jordan Cox is also set to make his Test debut, covering Smith’s wicketkeeper duties.
Bethell's selection marks England's continued push towards nurturing young talent with high potential, even if it means moving away from the traditional emphasis on first-class experience. The Barbados-born player has yet to score a first-class century, holding a modest average of 25.44 in red-ball cricket.
However, his prowess in shorter formats, including a 15-ball fifty for Birmingham Bears in the Vitality Blast, suggests that he could bring an aggressive edge to England’s middle order. Bethell called the call-up a "dream come true,” saying Test cricket has always been his ultimate goal.
In addition to Bethell, England has opted for a mix of spin options, with Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir, and Rehan Ahmed joining the squad. Vice-captain Ollie Pope, despite a rough tour in Pakistan where he averaged only 11, will retain his place, with coach Brendon McCullum expressing full support for him, hoping Pope will bounce back and find form in New Zealand. McCullum also praised Cox, saying he’s "annoyingly good at everything," including his batting and wicket-keeping skills.
New Zealand, meanwhile, will be missing Kane Williamson for the third Test of their series against India due to a groin injury. They are hopeful, however, that the batter will be back in shape to face England.
For England, this tour to New Zealand is the final chapter in their World Test Championship cycle, though they won’t be in contention for the finals. The series will kick off at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on November 28, followed by matches in Wellington and Hamilton in December.
