Jacob Bethell appointed Birmingham Phoenix captain for The Hundred
What's the story
Birmingham Phoenix has announced Jacob Bethell as the new captain of its men's team for the 2026 edition of The Hundred. The 22-year-old England batter will take over from Liam Livingstone, who has signed with London Spirit. Bethell's appointment comes after his successful stint as England's youngest-ever men's captain in a T20I series against Ireland last September. Across 20 games in The Hundred, Bethell has scored 298 runs at 21.28 (SR: 21.28).
Career highlights
Bethell's leadership journey
Despite his young age, Bethell has a wealth of leadership experience. He was England's youngest-ever men's captain when he led the team to a 2-0 T20I series win in Ireland last September. The appointment was surprising given his age, but Bethell had previously led England Under-19s. He also served as Harry Brook's vice-captain during white-ball series in New Zealand and Sri Lanka this winter and at the T20 World Cup.
Knock
Historic knock by Bethell
Bethell scored a scintillating hundred against India in the second semi-final of the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. Chasing 255 for victory, England were reduced to 64/3 inside the powerplay overs. Bethell, who arrived at four, then took the innings forward with his record-breaking knock. He was eventually run out for 105 off 48 balls in the 20th over. Though Bethell hit 8 fours and 7 sixes during his stay, England lost the contest.
Upcoming challenges
Bethell's record-breaking achievements
Bethell has also made history by becoming the youngest England player to score a century in all three international formats. He achieved this feat with hundreds against Australia (fifth Ashes Test) and India (T20 World Cup semi-final). Ahead of Thursday's auction, Bethell was a £340,000 pre-signing for Phoenix. "I'm incredibly proud to be named captain of the Birmingham Phoenix," he said after his appointment.
Coach's endorsement
Shane Bond praises Bethell's leadership skills
Shane Bond, the new men's head coach of Phoenix, praised Bethell as an "outstanding young leader who has already shown maturity beyond his years." He said Bethell's experience captaining England last year showed his tactical awareness and composure. "Jacob is an outstanding young leader who has already shown maturity beyond his years," Bond said. "His experience captaining England last year demonstrated his tactical awareness and composure, as well as the ability to inspire those around him."