Despite having relatively unimpressive stats in first-class cricket, 21-year-old Jacob Bethell has been selected to make his Test debut for England in New Zealand. This decision has raised eyebrows as other players with better numbers have been overlooked. However, with his exceptional performance in white-ball cricket and potential as a generational talent, Bethell has caught the attention of the selectors. Only time will tell if this unconventional pick by England will pay off.
In a surprising move, 21-year-old England player Jacob Bethell has been selected to bat at number three in the first Test against New Zealand. This comes after regular wicketkeeper Jordan Cox was ruled out due to injury. Captain Ben Stokes has moved down the batting order to make room for Bethell, who has impressed in white-ball cricket and recently secured an Indian Premier League contract with Royal Challengers Bangalore. Bethell's elevation is seen as a testament to his talent and potential, and is eagerly anticipated by both fans and teammates.
The second day of the IPL 2025 Auction saw intense bidding wars as RCB secured talented English all-rounder Jacob Bethell for Rs 2.6 crore, while CSK acquired Australian pacer Nathan Ellis for Rs 2 crore. Sri Lankan fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera and West Indies sensation Shamar Joseph were sold to Delhi Capitals and LSG respectively, while all-rounder Kamindu Mendis was taken by SRH at his base price of Rs 75 lakh. Several big names like Jason Behrendorff and Navdeep Saini went unsold, making it an eventful day for the IPL teams. Stay updated with the latest business news and stock market updates through our coverage.
Despite a strong track record in Test cricket, James Anderson failed to secure a contract in the IPL auction. However, other English players such as Will Jacks, Jacob Bethell, and Sam Curran made significant gains, with big name teams like Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings acquiring their services. The auction saw a major shakeup in the 2025 edition of the tournament, with teams finalizing their squads for the upcoming season.
England's hopes of a 5-0 series sweep against West Indies in the fourth T20 were dashed by a stunning century stand from Shai Hope and Evin Lewis, who helped the hosts chase down a target of 219 with six balls to spare. Despite a valiant effort from Jacob Bethell (22-ball fifty), who powered England to an imposing 218-5, the West Indies openers took control of the match with a 136-run partnership. Although England fought back with three quick wickets in the 10th over, West Indies regrouped to clinch their first victory thanks to a confident knock from Rovman Powell and a series of back-to-back sixes from Sherfane Rutherford. The win was also the fourth consecutive victory for the side chasing in the series. However, England's concerns over Liam Livingstone's injury may dampen their spirits as they head into the final match of the series.