England youngster Jacob Bethell showcased his immense talent on Wednesday by scoring his maiden Test century in the fifth Ashes Test against Australia. At the close of play, England were 302 for eight in their second innings, with Bethell unbeaten on 142 alongside Matthew Pottis, who had faced just 10 deliveries.
The 22-year-old reached his century in 162 balls, celebrating the milestone by acknowledging his emotional family in the stands. Remarkably, this was not only Bethell’s first Test century but also the only century he has achieved in red-ball cricket, his previous best being 96 against New Zealand.
Bethell made his Test debut in late 2024 against New Zealand in Christchurch, scoring half-centuries in all three matches of the series. He had initially moved into the number three spot after incumbent Ollie Pope dropped down the order. His momentum was later interrupted by injury and Pope’s return to form, but Bethell earned a recall for the fourth Test in Melbourne, scoring a gritty 40 in challenging conditions.
With this innings, the number three position seems to be firmly in Bethell’s hands. England were 219 runs ahead at stumps, although Australia had already retained the Ashes, winning the series 3-1.
Jacob Bethell’s sparkling century marks him as one of England’s brightest prospects, and fans will be eagerly watching his progress in future red-ball matches.
