Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batsman Jacob Bethell is poised to become the youngest-ever captain of England’s men’s cricket team in an international match. The 21-year-old has been named skipper for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Ireland, beginning in Dublin on September 17.
The record for the youngest captain was previously held by Monty Bowden, who led England at 23 during the 1888/89 series in Cape Town. England’s squad for the Ireland T20Is also features seasoned players like Jos Buttler, alongside young talents such as Sonny Baker, who has earned his first call-up to the national team.
“Jacob Bethell has impressed with his leadership qualities ever since he has been with the England squads and the series against Ireland will provide him with the opportunity to further develop those skills on the international stage,” men’s team selector Luke Wright said after the squad announcement on Friday, August 15. (via ECB website).
“Sonny is a player we have identified for a while and he was impressive during the England Lions tours last winter. He has carried that form into this season in white-ball cricket with Hampshire and Manchester Originals and deservedly gets his opportunity,” it added.
Harry Brook Named England White-Ball Captain For South Africa Series
Regular white-ball skipper Harry Brook will lead England in the upcoming three-match ODI and T20I series against South Africa. Jacob Bethell has also been named in both squads. The team includes Rehan Ahmed, who has enjoyed a strong batting season for Leicestershire in county cricket. The series will begin with the first ODI at Leeds on September 2.
England squad for ODI series against South Africa: Harry Brook (capt), Sonny Baker, Tom Banton, Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Saqib Mahmood, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jamie Smith.
England squad for T20I series against South Africa: Harry Brook (capt), Rehan Ahmed, Saqib Mahmood, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer, Tom Banton, Brydon Carse, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Will Jacks, Phil Salt, Jamie Smith, Luke Wood.
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