Bethell back as England name youth stars for Australia tour

Jacob Bethell is back in the England white-ball squad after recovering from a knee injury sustained in July, with the Warwickshire left-hander set to feature in the upcoming tour of Australia ^[1]. His return, alongside Jofra Archer’s inclusion in the 16-player ODI squad, signals a near-full-strength side for the three one-day internationals beginning in Perth on 13 November ^[2]. The ODI squad is otherwise intact, missing only wicketkeeper Jos Buttler, who is sidelined after hamstring surgery.

Following the ODIs, England will rotate their squad for the five T20Is, resting key fast bowlers Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Josh Tongue, and Sonny Baker to prepare for the Test tour of South Africa ^[1]. This reshuffle sees 18-year-old Somerset wicketkeeper-batter Thomas Rew and 21-year-old Hampshire pace bowler Eddie Jack earn their first international call-ups. Rew, who turns 19 on 29 November, could become the youngest England player to face Australia, and the third-youngest overall in any format.

The T20 squad also includes uncapped Henry Crocombe, who earned a two-year central contract, and Luke Wood, despite losing his central deal ^[2]. Aneurin Donald retains his place after a strong showing in Sri Lanka, while Phil Salt and Sam Curran return from injury. Notably, no leg-spinner is included despite Adil Rashid’s return, with Rehan Ahmed and Mason Crane absent.

Harry Brook captains both squads and is set to play every game—a rare feat since a rest period in September 2023 ^[1]. The tour includes a warm-up match against Western Australia on 7 November before the ODIs begin ^[2]. The first T20 is at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on 21 November.

Bethell’s return raises questions about selection for the upcoming South Africa Test series, with one source suggesting he could displace Emilio Gay, Jordan Cox, or Dan Lawrence, though this has not been confirmed ^[1]. The tour serves as vital preparation for next year’s World Cup in southern Africa. The story was first reported by BBC News and The Independent.