Big blow for Birmingham Phoenix! Jacob Bethell rules from The Hundred 2026 | Cricket News
England all-rounder Jacob Bethell Missed the 2026 edition of The Hundred after sustaining a right knee injury during the recently concluded ODI series against India.Bethell, who was retained by Birmingham Phoenix for GBP 340,000 ahead of The Hundred’s inaugural player auction, has also been appointed captain for the upcoming season. However, an MRI scan performed on Monday confirmed the extent of the damage, forcing the 22-year-old to withdraw from the tournament. He is set to begin his rehabilitation program immediately.The loss comes after a mixed white-ball series against India, where Bethell produced flashes of brilliance despite inconsistent returns. He hit an unbeaten 76 off 46 balls in the second T20I before ending the ODI series with a composed 91 in the final match.
Shane Bond reacts to Bethell’s blow
Birmingham Phoenix head coach Shane Bond admitted the franchise was disappointed to lose its captain and one of its most influential players, but stressed Bethell’s long-term recovery remains a priority.“We are all very disappointed for Jacob and sad that he will not be able to join us this year. It is sad to lose a player of his quality, especially your captain, so close to the tournament, but his long-term health should be the priority. Bond also confirmed that Donovan Ferreira will take over as captain, backing the South African to lead the side.“In Donovan Ferreira we have a real leader who knows what it takes to enter the competition. He has won it before and will be a good person for the younger members of the squad to learn from. We are lucky to have someone of his stature to step into the captaincy,” he added.
‘Disappointing To Lose’
Reacting to the injury, Bethell expressed his disappointment at missing the tournament, especially the chance to play in front of the Birmingham Phoenix supporters at Edgbaston.“It’s disappointing to miss The Hundred, especially representing Birmingham Phoenix in front of our supporters at Edgbaston. Unfortunately, I have to take time to get back to full fitness,” Bethell said in the statement.
Bethell in The Hundred 2025
Jacob Bethell played a key role for Birmingham Phoenix during The Hundred 2025, with eight matches as a middle-order all-rounder. He scored 122 runs at a strike rate of 143.53 while also picking up three wickets with his left-arm spin, impressing with his finishing ability and versatility. His performances in the tournament proved to be a springboard to international cricket, earning him selection for England’s senior white-ball squad later that year.
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