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England's young all-rounder Jacob Bethell has been named captain of the Hundred franchise Birmingham Phoenix ahead of the auction. Bethell who became England's youngest ever men's captain in 136 years last year has led England at Under-19 level as well. The 22-year-old who was a pre-signing for the Phoenix will take over the reigns from Liam Livingstone, who has made a move to London Spirit.
"I'm incredibly proud to be named captain of the Birmingham Phoenix," Bethell said. "Leading this team is a huge honour, and it's an opportunity I'm ready for, especially after the experience of captaining England last year. That responsibility taught me a lot about my own leadership and how to bring the best out of a group."
Bethell has had a fantastic season of international cricket. He is the first to score a century in List A, first class and T20s at international level. Earlier this month, he gave T20 World Champions India a scare with a century in a mammoth run chase at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.
Phoenix’s head coach, Shane Bond, has lauded the young leader for his maturity.
"Jacob is an outstanding young leader who has already shown maturity beyond his years. His experience captaining England last year demonstrated his tactical awareness and composure, as well as the ability to inspire those around him," the former New Zealand pacer said.
Bethell’s The Hundred career
The Barbados-born all-rounder made his The Hundred debut for Welsh Fire in 2022. Then, he was roped in by Phoenix in 2023 where he played just one game in the season.
In 2024, he played nine games and scored 166 runs at an average of 33.20 and strike rate of 132.80. In the previous season, he scored 122 runs from eight innings at an average of 20.33 and strike rate of 143.52. He is yet to score his maiden fifty in the competition. With the ball, he claimed three wickets, averaging 22 and conceding runs at above 10 runs per over.
Ellyse Perry to continue as captain
Ahead of the auction on March 11, Phoenix have confirmed Australia’s experienced all-rounder Ellyse Perry has their captain for second consecutive season.
"I'm really honoured to captain Birmingham Phoenix Women again," Perry said. "Edgbaston is a special place to play cricket, and I'm looking forward to leading what we're hoping will be a young and exciting squad of players who can play an eye-catching brand of cricket."
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