Win Projections to be updated soon
London, 8 September 2025:
England coach Brendon McCullum says no final decision has been made on the lineup for the opening Ashes Test against Australia in Perth on Nov. 21.
England are expected to field a largely settled side, but uncertainty remains at No. 3, where selectors must choose between vice-captain Ollie Pope and 21-year-old Jacob Bethell.
Bethell strengthened his case by scoring his first professional century in Sunday’s third ODI against South Africa. He also made three half-centuries at No. 3 last winter when Pope moved down the order to take over wicketkeeping duties.
“We’ve got a few other fish to fry before we get there, but I think we’ve said since we introduced Jacob that he’s got a huge future in front of him,” McCullum said. “He’s very quickly taken to international cricket. To be 21 and play like he does, with the head on his shoulders that he’s got, is impressive. He’ll keep working hard and we’ll see what unfolds.”
Bethell admitted after Sunday’s innings that he should have played more cricket this summer, having spent much of it as England’s spare batter. He will have further chances to impress in T20s against South Africa this week, followed by six white-ball matches in New Zealand ahead of the Ashes.
In between those assignments, Bethell will become the youngest man to captain England when he leads an under-strength team against Ireland later this month.
“It’s a tremendous honor for him and we’ve put him in that position because we feel he’s got leadership qualities,” McCullum said.
Asked if he already had an Ashes XI in mind, McCullum replied: “No, not yet. We will work that out when we get to Australia.”
