England Prepares for Zimbabwe Test Amid Controversy Over Squad Selection

As England gears up for a one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge, the exclusion of young allrounder Jacob Bethell has sparked controversy. Former captain Mike Atherton criticizes the ECB for not recalling Bethell, who impressed during the New Zealand series. Atherton argues that international fixtures should take precedence over IPL commitments, highlighting the selectors' dilemma as they navigate team composition. With the upcoming series against India on the horizon, this match serves as a crucial opportunity for England to refine their squad. Read on to discover more about the implications of this selection controversy and Bethell's promising career.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 12, 2025, 11:19 IST

England's Upcoming Test Against Zimbabwe

Later this month, England will face Zimbabwe in a one-off four-day Test match at Trent Bridge, serving as a crucial preparation for their five-match home series against India set to begin in June. Although this match is not part of the ICC World Test Championship, it provides England an opportunity to refine their squad, particularly as several players return to the red-ball format.

Criticism Over Squad Selection

The 13-member squad announced for the May 22 match has drawn criticism from some quarters. Former England captain Mike Atherton has expressed disappointment with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for not including young allrounder Jacob Bethell, who had a standout performance during the Test series in New Zealand earlier this year.

Jacob Bethell's Impressive Performance

At just 21 years old, Bethell, who is currently playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2025, made his Test debut in New Zealand, where he scored three fifties across three matches and maintained an impressive average of over 50. Despite his strong showing, he has not been recalled to the squad as he continues to honor his IPL contract.

Atherton's Perspective on Bethell's Exclusion

“In my opinion, Bethell should have been included. The purpose of an England central contract is to maintain control over your players. If a player is awarded a full central contract, as Bethell was after his performance in New Zealand, he should be brought back for a Test,” Atherton stated on Sky Sports.

Prioritizing International Fixtures

Atherton also criticized the ECB's policy of allowing players to fulfill their IPL commitments even when national matches are scheduled. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing international fixtures over domestic franchise competitions.

“This is a Test match, an international event, and international fixtures should take precedence over domestic leagues. While the policy allows players to complete their IPL contracts, I do not fully support it,” he remarked.

Selectors' Dilemma

Atherton pointed out that Bethell's ongoing participation in the IPL may have spared the selectors from a difficult decision regarding team composition. With Jamie Smith returning from paternity leave and Jordan Cox sidelined due to injury, selectors opted to retain Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope, both of whom have faced scrutiny for their recent performances.

“In many respects, it relieved the selectors of a challenging decision. Bethell showed great potential in New Zealand, but with Smith's return, it would have complicated matters. They might have considered adding Bethell to the squad, but perhaps they are relieved not to have to make that choice just yet,” he added.

Bethell's Test Career So Far

Although Bethell has only played three Tests, he has already accumulated 260 runs, including three half-centuries, boasting an average of 52 with the bat.