 "Jacob Bethell reacts during the 1st ODI between India and England. Image: Reuters")
England’s preparations for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 have suffered a significant setback, with star batter Jacob Bethell confirmed to be sidelined due to a hamstring injury. The injury, sustained during the ongoing tour of India, has ruled Bethell out of the tournament, which begins on 19 February. The news was confirmed by England captain Jos Buttler, who expressed his disappointment at the unfortunate development.
England suffers big setback ahead of Champions Trophy
Bethell missed Sunday’s second ODI in Cuttack due to the injury, and Buttler later confirmed that the 22-year-old batter is unlikely to recover in time for the prestigious Champions Trophy.
“I’m pretty sure he’s been ruled out of the Champions Trophy, to be honest. That’s really disappointing for him, obviously, he played nicely the other day and has been one of the really exciting players so it’s a shame that the injury is going to rule him out,” Buttler was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
The injury comes as a major blow for Bethell, who had been in good form. He impressed in the first ODI against India, contributing with both bat and ball, scoring 51 runs and taking 1 for 18 with his left-arm spin.
In the absence of Bethell, England have moved swiftly to address the gap in the squad, bringing in Somerset’s Tom Banton as cover. Banton will arrive in India on Monday to join the team for the third ODI.
The full extent of Bethell’s hamstring injury is still being assessed, and England have yet to make an official announcement about his status. Bethell’s absence from the tournament is a blow for England, particularly with the 22-year-old earmarked by head coach Brendon McCullum as a key player across all formats.
England’s Champions Trophy squad will need to make any official replacements by 12 February, which is the deadline for changes to the 15-member squad.