A white-ball homecoming awaits Jacob Bethell, but the England newcomer has made it clear that his ultimate dream is to play Test cricket. This aspiration is common among cricketers, but it carries significant meaning when voiced by a 20-year-old excelling in the lucrative shorter formats. Bethell, who was born and raised in Barbados, has been selected for the limited-overs squad to tour the Caribbean in October and November, following his debut in ODIs and T20Is against Australia this summer. The left-handed batter was particularly impressive in England’s T20 victory at Cardiff, where his 24-ball 44 included some powerful hitting against the opposition’s top bowler, Adam Zampa.
“It’s nice to have achieved two milestones, but the best one is hopefully yet to come,” Bethell said. “Test cricket has always been my dream, and although the path has taken a different turn in the last three years, playing Test cricket for England remains my ultimate goal.” After making a mark in this year’s T20 Blast and Hundred, Bethell has yet to establish a significant red-ball record with Warwickshire. This season, he has made 11 County Championship appearances, scoring 466 runs at an average of 31.06, while his left-arm spin has yielded seven wickets at 69.42.
“I’ve definitely clarified my role in white-ball cricket this year, but I’m still quite adaptable in red-ball cricket,” Bethell explained. “I haven’t yet found my niche in the batting order, but I believe it could be anywhere from opening to batting at No 7. With my off-spin bowling, I’m hoping to secure a spot as a genuine all-rounder.” Reflecting on his initial international outings, Bethell expressed satisfaction at feeling “comfortable at a level I didn’t expect.” He added, “Especially with the bat, I felt really at home, which reinforced my readiness for this level and what lies ahead.”
What lies ahead for Bethell is a return to his birthplace, Barbados, where England will play three matches on their upcoming tour. “All my friends have already bought tickets,” Bethell said, joking about a potentially hostile reception but anticipating a warm welcome. “I’m hoping I don’t get booed too much, as I’ve seen how Steve Smith is treated in his recent games. But I’m only joking—there’s a lot of support coming my way.”
