Jacob Bethell chose to miss the Zimbabwe Test to play in the IPL, learning from Virat Kohli. Ollie Pope scored 171, competing for the No. 3 slot in the Test against India. Bethell’s experience in India has enhanced his skills, recently showcased by his 82 runs in an ODI against the West Indies.
Jacob Bethell has defended his decision to miss the England Test against Zimbabwe to continue playing in the Indian Premier League. While in India, he was able to train and gain experience alongside cricket superstar Virat Kohli, which he considers invaluable. Bethell, just 21, played as England’s No. 3 in their recent Test tour of New Zealand but opted to stay with Royal Challengers Bengaluru during the Zimbabwe match at Trent Bridge.
In his absence, Ollie Pope put up an impressive score of 171 runs, further pushing his credentials for the No. 3 slot as England prepares for the upcoming Test series against India. Bethell expressed no regrets about his choice, emphasizing that playing in the IPL and rubbing shoulders with Kohli provided him with great learning opportunities. He stated, “Once I signed that IPL contract, I was away in India until May 26 and that meant I was missing the dates that the Test was on. No discussions were had. I was happy to stay over there and gain more experience.”
Bethell discussed what it was like to bat alongside Kohli, calling it “electrifying” and noting the immense aura the Indian player carries. He added that conversations with Kohli were enlightening, providing insights that unfolded gradually during his time there. Despite having only played two matches in the IPL, he felt that facing quality bowlers daily significantly improved his game.
Upon returning to England, Bethell marked his presence by scoring 82 runs off 53 balls in an ODI against the West Indies, helping his team secure a massive 238-run victory at Edgbaston. His performance has intensified scrutiny on the race for the No. 3 Test batting position. Recently, England captain Ben Stokes hinted that Bethell would likely return for the India series, although he later clarified his comments referred to the squad rather than a guaranteed spot.
When asked if he was aware of the discussions back home, Bethell admitted that the lack of local news made it hard to follow. “Not being in England, I didn’t really hear a lot of it until one of my friends messaged me and said the whole thing was going on. Whatever happens, happens,” he said. Bethell seems set on continuing to prove himself as he makes his mark on international cricket, regardless of the ongoing competition for spots on the team.
Jacob Bethell stands firm on his choice to forgo the Zimbabwe Test for IPL cricket, valuing his experience with Virat Kohli over immediate national team obligations. With Ollie Pope’s impressive performance adding to the competition for the No. 3 slot, the upcoming series against India promises to be intense, and Bethell’s improved skills could spotlight his future in the England team. As he adjusts to the landscape of international cricket, the unfolding battle for positions remains compelling.
Original Source: www.dailymail.co.uk
