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The young cricketer is set for the national team to “chuck me in the deep end” as he braces to guide the squad for the maiden occasion against Ireland on midweek, establishing him as the country’s most junior skipper in men’s cricket.

Due to a key player given a break for this fast-paced three-match T20 series in a Dublin suburb, just north of Dublin, the 21-year-old takes over to further his quick climb in international cricket. Bethell made his England debut last September and impressed in his initial five-day contests against New Zealand at the end of the year. Still working to seal a fixed spot in the Test lineup, he has become an first-choice selection in the coach’s white-ball teams.

“Baz phoned me and said I was going to be leader,” said the young star. “Not much has been said of why I’ve been chosen for the position. I don’t know the precise rationale of those in charge. Perhaps it’s maybe just a bit of trust, and showing a belief. It’ll prove nice to see how I go under scrutiny, and no doubt that the people who made the decision would like to see that too.”

“I thrive on when things come at a fast pace, it often get me up and going. So I prefer those circumstances, doesn’t mean they guarantee success. But fingers crossed this one does.”

Even with plenty of experienced names in the squad to play the hosts, Bethell’s appointment is in tune with the coaching staff’s bold choices when it regards picking players. He will need to fall back on his past background of leading England Under-19s.

Style of Leadership

“Inexperienced but eager,” replied a smiling Bethell when questioned what sort of captain he is. “What matters most I’ve respected in captains I’ve had before is how they handle players. Some tactical decision you make is going to work, but it’s supporting the boys well so they believe you’re behind them. I’ve got no preconceived ideas of how I’ll approach it.”

He has regained touch with the batting since he was announced as skipper last month, having notched his first professional century in the last 50-over match against the Proteas less than a fortnight ago. “I was out of action for a while and perhaps slipped in timing, but regained that rhythm improve about during the tournament so it’s reassuring to be back confident.” He avoided any in-depth discussion: “My head’s firmly focused to the Ireland games.”

Opposition Threats

One batsman and another experienced player “represent the main threats with the batting” for the opposition, noted Bethell. The home side enter underprepared having not played since June – a polar opposite to the visitors – and will be missing the whippy left-arm pace of a key bowler, on the mend from a rib injury. Yet, the only completed T20 meeting between these two teams brought an win for Ireland in Australia at the global tournament three years ago, a reminder that it may not be all straightforward for the new captain over the next week.