England’s Jacob Bethell Doubtful for Champions Trophy Due to Hamstring Injury

NAGPUR, India — England batter Jacob Bethell has emerged as a major doubt for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy after sustaining a left hamstring injury during the first ODI against India on Thursday. The 21-year-old, who made his international debut in September 2023, was ruled out of Sunday’s second ODI in Cuttack and is likely to miss the series decider in Ahmedabad on Wednesday.

Bethell, who impressed with a composed 51 and 1 for 18 with his left-arm spin in the first ODI, underwent a scan, and further assessments are expected in the coming days. England’s Champions Trophy campaign begins on February 22 against Australia in Lahore, leaving Bethell with a race against time to recover. The deadline for finalizing the 15-man squad is February 12.

Meanwhile, Tom Banton, the 26-year-old Somerset batter, has been called up as cover for the third ODI. Banton, who last played for England in January 2022, has been in exceptional form in the ILT20, leading the batting charts with 493 runs in 11 innings, including two centuries, for MI Emirates.

Bethell’s potential absence is a significant blow for England, as he has quickly become a key player across all formats. The youngster has already featured in 22 matches for England, scoring two half-centuries each in ODIs and T20Is, and three during his maiden Test tour of New Zealand. His all-round capabilities, including left-arm spin and exceptional fielding, make him a pivotal asset for the team.”