Jacob Bethell’s Test debut in Christchurch has drawn praise from former England captain Alastair Cook. Cook believes the young batter’s temperament could help him overcome his limited red-ball experience. Bethell, 21, made scores of 10 and an unbeaten 50 in England’s eight-wicket win over New Zealand.
Bethell Fastracked into the Spotlight
Bethell was unexpectedly handed the No.3 role after Jordan Cox’s hand injury ruled him out of the first Test. With Ollie Pope taking up wicketkeeping duties and moving down the order, Bethell was tasked with anchoring England’s top order. Despite playing only 20 first-class matches and never scoring a century in any senior format, he stepped up.
Cook, who debuted at the same age in 2006 with a century against India, warned against placing too many expectations on Bethell too early. “There’s a long way to go, but it’s been an encouraging start,” Cook said.
Alistair Cook Praises Bethell’s Grit
Bethell’s resolve was evident in England’s first innings. He battled challenging, overcast conditions to score 10 off 34 balls, resisting a swinging New Zealand attack before falling to a sharp delivery just before lunch.
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“I was impressed,” Cook noted. “Particularly the way he gutted it out in the first innings. His strike rate in red-ball cricket is below 50, so it’s clear he likes to build an innings. That’s a huge strength, even though he’s far from the finished article.”
His second innings, however, showcased his ability to adapt. Bethell’s unbeaten 50 guided England to victory. This silenced doubts about his readiness for the highest level.
Cook admitted to initial scepticism about Bethell’s selection, considering his modest first-class record. However, he acknowledged that the leadership group must have seen qualities that went beyond statistics. “He’s handling the pressure well, as if he’s ticking off all the mental boxes before the numbers catch up,” Cook said.
The former captain emphasized that Test cricket is as much a mental challenge as a technical one. “A decent technique is crucial, but the power of the mind can overcome a lot. Bethell has shown he’s made of the right stuff.”
Cook Impressed by Pope’s Keeping
Bethell’s emergence also shifts the focus to Ollie Pope, who donned the gloves in Cox’s absence. Pope delivered a calm 77 from No.6 and impressed with faultless wicketkeeping, sparking debates about his long-term role.
“I was pleasantly surprised by Pope’s keeping,” Cook admitted. “He didn’t make any noticeable mistakes and looked composed throughout. Maybe it’s an option to consider down the line.”
For now, Bethell’s promising start at No.3 could allow Pope to settle into a middle-order role where he appears more comfortable.
Bethell’s debut has provided England with a potential long-term top-order solution, but Cook urged patience. “We shouldn’t expect too much too soon,” he said. “Bethell has plenty of room to grow, and the leadership group clearly trusts him.”, Cook concluded.
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