Jacob Bethell Called Up for New Zealand Tests as Jamie Smith Takes Paternity Leave

Jacob Bethell Called Up for New Zealand Tests as Jamie Smith Takes Paternity Leave

Jacob Bethell, the 21-year-old Warwickshire allrounder, has been added to England's Test squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, replacing Jamie Smith, who is on paternity leave.

Bethell impressed during his recent white-ball debut against Australia, notably scoring 44 runs off 24 balls in the second T20I. However, he has only played 20 County Championship matches and is yet to score a first-class century.

His selection is the sole change to the 16-man squad that recently lost a Test series in Pakistan. Jordan Cox, previously an unused reserve, will take on the wicketkeeping duties in Smith's absence.

England's recent selections reflect a shift away from traditional criteria like averages and experience, favoring players with high potential. This includes young talents like Leicestershire's Josh Hull and spin bowlers Rehan Ahmed and Shoaib Bashir, who are also part of the New Zealand tour.

At the PCA Awards, Bethell expressed his aspiration to become an all-format player for England, with Test cricket being his ultimate goal. "It's nice to have played ODIs and T20Is, but Test cricket has always been my dream," he said.

Regarding his role in the Test side, Bethell noted his limited first-class experience, stating he’s still discovering where he fits best in the batting order. He has previously batted as low as No. 6, with hopes of contributing as a genuine allrounder.

The Test series begins at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, on November 28, with subsequent matches in Wellington and Hamilton on December 6 and 14, respectively.

England Test Squad for New Zealand Tour:
- 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

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