England delivered a commanding performance in the first One-Day International (ODI) against the West Indies at Edgbaston on Thursday, thanks in large part to rising star Jacob Bethell. The 21-year-old all-rounder impressed with a powerful innings that helped England post a massive total of 400-8, eventually leading to a dominant 238-run victory. His performance caught the eye of England’s white-ball captain Harry Brook, who hailed Bethell as a future star of English cricket.
Harry Brook Praises Jacob Bethell’s Match-Winning Innings
Harry Brook, who recently assumed the role of England’s permanent white-ball captain, praised Bethell’s outstanding 82 runs from just 53 balls. Brook highlighted Bethell’s confidence and all-round ability, emphasizing that the young left-hander would have a long and successful career if he continues to perform at this level.
“He batted beautifully,” Brook said. “When one of us gets going, it’s hard to stop us, and Jacob showed exactly that. Although he didn’t reach a century, his innings was crucial to the team’s success. He knows he’s a good player, and we all know he’s exceptional. He can bowl, field, and bat, so he brings so much to the team.”
This win ended England’s seven-match losing streak in ODI cricket and put them 1-0 up in the three-match series against the West Indies.
Bethell’s Performance Sparks Test Selection Debate
Jacob Bethell’s impressive showing has reignited discussions around his potential place in England’s Test side for the upcoming five-match series against India. The left-handed all-rounder, who recently returned from the Indian Premier League (IPL), missed the recent Test against Zimbabwe, leaving England selectors to decide whether to reinstate him at number three or keep vice-captain Ollie Pope in the spot.
Test captain Ben Stokes hinted that Bethell could return to the squad for the first Test against India, which begins June 20 at Headingley. However, Bethell himself remained relaxed about his place, stating, “Not a lot has been said to me, to be honest. Those boys have their spots, and whatever happens, happens. I’ll be happy with whatever.”
England’s Batting Dominates with Multiple Key Contributions
England’s innings at Edgbaston showcased remarkable batting depth. Besides Bethell’s explosive knock, Ben Duckett scored 60, Joe Root 57, and Harry Brook contributed 58 runs. Notably, every batsman in England’s top seven scored at least 35 runs, reflecting the team’s consistent and aggressive approach.
Brook described the batting tempo as “spot on” throughout the innings, which laid a strong foundation for the team’s total of 400 runs, one of the highest in men’s ODI cricket history.
West Indies Collapse Under England’s Bowling Attack
Facing the daunting target of 401, the West Indies struggled from the start. They became only the second team in men’s ODI history to fail in chasing a 400-plus total, after South Africa’s famous 438 run chase against Australia in 2006.
England’s bowlers applied relentless pressure, with Saqib Mahmood, Jamie Overton, and Bethell all making key breakthroughs. Mahmood took three wickets, while Overton claimed three despite dislocating his finger early in his spell. Bethell himself also picked up a wicket, further underlining his all-round impact.
The West Indies crumbled to 162 all out in just 26.2 overs, handing England a crushing 238-run victory.
Detailed Scoreboard Highlights
England Batting Summary:
- J. Smith: 37 runs
- B. Duckett: 60 runs
- J. Root: 57 runs
- H. Brook: 58 runs
- J. Buttler: 37 runs
- J. Bethell: 82 runs (Player of the Match)
- W. Jacks: 39 runs
- J. Overton: 1 run
- B. Carse: 3* runs (not out)
- A. Rashid: 2* runs (not out)
- Extras: 24 runs (including wides, no balls, and leg byes)
England finished with a total of 400 runs for 8 wickets in their allotted 50 overs.
West Indies Batting Summary:
- B. King: 10 runs
- J. Greaves: 4 runs
- K. Carty: 22 runs
- S. Hope: 25 runs
- J. Andrew: 8 runs
- A. Jangoo: 14 runs
- R. Chase: 9 runs
- M. Forde: 1 run
- G. Motie: 18 runs
- A. Joseph: 12 runs
- J. Seales: 29* runs (not out)
- Extras: 10 runs
West Indies were bowled out for 162 in 26.2 overs.
What This Win Means for England’s ODI Prospects
This emphatic victory marks a turning point for England’s ODI team after a difficult run of form. The team’s ability to post huge totals and back it up with aggressive bowling shows their potential to dominate in the ongoing series against the West Indies and beyond.
Jacob Bethell’s rise adds another dimension to the squad, offering both batting firepower and valuable bowling options. Harry Brook’s leadership seems to be energizing the team, setting a positive tone as England prepares for future challenges, including the much-anticipated Test series against India.
Looking Ahead: The India Test Series
The spotlight will now shift to the Test arena, where England must decide on their best combination to face India starting June 20. Bethell’s performances in the white-ball format have certainly pushed his name into the conversation for a Test recall.
While selectors weigh their options, Bethell remains focused on contributing in whatever capacity the team requires. With his all-round skills and proven match-winning ability, Bethell could become a key player in England’s quest for Test success on home soil.
