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Bethell to Lead England in Ireland T20Is; Sonny Baker Earns Maiden Call-Up
England have announced a historic appointment with Jacob Bethell set to captain the national team in the upcoming three-match T20I series against Ireland. The 21-year-old all-rounder will become the youngest-ever England captain in international cricket, overtaking Monty Bowden, who led the side during the 1888/89 series. Alongside Bethell, Sonny Baker, a 22-year-old pace bowler from Hampshire, has been rewarded with his first senior call-up, capping off a stellar domestic season.
Jacob Bethell Makes History as England’s Youngest Captain
Bethell’s leadership journey has been closely monitored by the England selectors, with his performances in domestic cricket and developmental tours reflecting maturity well beyond his years. His promotion to captaincy represents a significant moment in English cricket, as selectors look to build the next generation of leaders.
Luke Wright, England Men’s Selector, praised Bethell’s rise:
“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 the chance to further enhance those skills on the international stage.”
This appointment is not only symbolic but also strategic, as several senior players have been rested following a busy international calendar. Bethell will be supported by an experienced coaching setup, with Marcus Trescothick stepping in as interim head coach for the tour.
Baker’s Breakthrough: A New Paceman on the International Stage
Sonny Baker, a rising fast bowler who has made waves with Hampshire and the Manchester Originals in The Hundred, has finally earned his long-anticipated England call-up. Known for his pace and swing, Baker has been one of the standout performers in white-ball formats this year.
Wright highlighted Baker’s readiness:
“Sonny is a player we have had our eye on for some time. His performances for the England Lions last winter and his form this season in white-ball cricket have been exceptional. This is a deserved opportunity for him.”
England’s Upcoming Assignments
ODI & T20I Series vs South Africa
Before the Ireland series, England will host South Africa for three ODIs (starting September 7) and three T20Is. Harry Brook will take charge of both home series, as selectors continue to rest all-format Test regulars to manage workloads ahead of a busy schedule.
Key names like Jofra Archer, Jos Buttler, Joe Root, and Adil Rashid feature in the South Africa squads, providing balance between youth and experience.
Read more about England’s cricket schedule here.
England Squads Announced
England Squad for ODIs vs South Africa
Harry Brook (C), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Sonny Baker, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Saqib Mahmood, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jamie Smith
England Squad for T20Is vs South Africa
Harry Brook (C), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Saqib Mahmood, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Jamie Smith, Luke Wood
England Squad for T20Is vs Ireland
Jacob Bethell (C), Rehan Ahmed, Sonny Baker, Tom Banton, Jos Buttler, Liam Dawson, Tom Hartley, Will Jacks, Saqib Mahmood, Jamie Overton, Matthew Potts, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Luke Wood
Building the Future of English Cricket
The decision to appoint Jacob Bethell as captain and introduce Sonny Baker reflects England’s long-term vision of developing fresh talent while carefully managing senior players’ workloads. With tournaments like the ICC T20 World Cup and World Test Championship looming, these opportunities allow young players to establish themselves on the biggest stage.
Explore more updates on England cricket and players.
