Young all-rounder Jacob Bethell has created history after being appointed captain of the England squad for their upcoming 3-match T20I tour of Ireland. The 21-year-old, who bats left-handed and bowls part-time spin, will become the youngest England men’s captain ever, surpassing several greats who were handed the role later in their careers.
At just 21 years and 329 days, Bethell will lead the side in the absence of star batter Harry Brook, who has been rested for the short series. The England tour of Ireland begins on August 17 and wraps up on August 21.
England’s squad for the series includes: 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, and Luke Wood.
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Once Bethell takes the field, he will hold the record as the youngest to captain England. For context, Sir Alastair Cook was 24 years and 325 days old when he first led the side, while Eoin Morgan and Jos Buttler were 24 and 25, respectively, when they took charge. Bethell’s elevation to leadership is, therefore, unprecedented in English cricket.
History maker! 💥
Jacob Bethell is set to become our youngest ever England Men’s captain against Ireland 👏
Congrats, Beth! pic.twitter.com/tcR4b0dB0D
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) August 15, 2025
Youngest England Men’s Captains
- Jacob Bethell – 21y, 329d
- Monty Parker Bowden – 23y, 144d
- Ivo Bligh – 23y, 292d
- Alastair Cook – 24y, 325d
- Eoin Morgan – 24y, 349d
- Stuart Broad – 25y, 1d
- Jos Buttler – 25y, 60d
England men’s selector Luke Wright praised Bethell’s maturity, stating that he has consistently displayed leadership qualities within the squad. “Jacob Bethell has impressed with his leadership qualities ever since he has been with the England squads. The series against Ireland will allow him to further develop those skills on the international stage,” Wright said.
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Bethell has so far played 13 T20Is, scoring 281 runs and picking up 4 wickets. He also has IPL experience with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, making his rapid rise to captaincy even more remarkable.
