Jacob Bethell, the promising Warwickshire all-rounder, has been called up to England’s Test squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand. The 21-year-old replaces Jamie Smith, who will miss the trip due to paternity leave.
Bethell’s inclusion is a testament to his impressive performances in white-ball cricket. During his international debut against Australia in September, he showcased his batting prowess with a match-winning 44 off 24 deliveries in the second T20I.
Despite his limited experience in first-class cricket, Bethell has made a strong impression. In his 20 County Championship appearances, he has demonstrated his all-around abilities, contributing with both bat and ball.
Bethell’s selection is the only change to the 16-man squad that recently faced Pakistan in a three-match Test series. Jordan Cox, who served as an unused batting reserve in Pakistan, is expected to make his Test debut as the wicketkeeper in Smith’s absence.
The England Test squad for the New Zealand tour is as follows:
* Ben Stokes (captain)
* Rehan Ahmed
* Gus Atkinson
* Shoaib Bashir
* Jacob Bethell
* Harry Brook
* Brydon Carse
* Jordan Cox
* Zak Crawley
* Ben Duckett
* Jack Leach
* Ollie Pope
* Matthew Potts
* Joe Root
* Olly Stone
* Chris Woakes
England will be hoping to bounce back from their 2-1 series defeat in Pakistan and secure a positive result in New Zealand. Bethell’s inclusion adds depth to the squad and provides an opportunity for the young all-rounder to showcase his talent on the international stage.
