Jacob Bethell Earns First Test Call-Up for New Zealand Tour

Jacob Bethell has been selected for England’s Test squad for their upcoming three-match series against New Zealand. The 20-year-old all-rounder was chosen to replace Jamie Smith, who will miss the tour to be with his family for the birth of his first child, as confirmed by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on October 29.

This selection marks the only change in the squad from England’s recent tour to Pakistan, where they suffered a 2-1 series defeat. Another notable selection is Jordan Cox, who is set to make his debut as England’s sole wicket-keeper for this tour.

Bethell has previously represented England in T20I and ODI formats, making a strong impact during his debut series against Australia earlier this year. In the T20I series, he impressed by scoring 44 runs off just 24 balls in the second match, helping England level the series. In First-Class cricket, Bethell has shown promise with 738 runs in 20 matches for Warwickshire.

The England squad for the New Zealand tour includes notable players like Ben Stokes (Captain), Zak Crawley, Joe Root, and Harry Brook, with Rehan Ahmed, Brydon Carse, and Chris Woakes rounding out the team. The inclusion of young talents like Bethell and Cox reflects England's focus on blending experience with fresh energy as they prepare to face New Zealand.