Injury Strikes England Squad Ahead of Australia Tour

England's cricket team faces a significant challenge as Jacob Bethell is ruled out of the upcoming tour to Australia due to a knee injury. This setback comes as the team prepares for a series of ODIs and T20Is against Australia. With Bethell's absence, replacements have been called up, and the squad is set to begin their campaign soon. Discover the full schedule and the impact of these injuries on the team's performance.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 11, 2026, 18:21 IST

Injury Concerns for England's Jacob Bethell

England cricketer Jacob Bethell has been sidelined from the upcoming white-ball series in Australia due to a knee injury. A recent scan on his right knee indicated a problem, marking another hurdle in his return to competitive cricket after an injury during the previous home season.

Bethell was included in both the ODI and T20I teams for the tour and was poised to play his first match since July 2026. However, after evaluating his knee condition, it was determined that the 22-year-old would head back to the UK on Saturday for further consultation with a specialist. He is also part of the squad for the ICC World Test Championship series against South Africa scheduled for 2025-27.

Tour Schedule and Replacement Players

This injury marks the second setback for the England team since arriving in Australia, following the earlier exclusion of fast bowler Josh Tongue. In response, James Coles and Eddie Jack have been summoned to join the ODI squad as replacements for Bethell and Tongue. Both players are anticipated to reach Perth by Thursday.

England's white-ball series against Australia will kick off with a three-match ODI series, starting in Perth on November 13. The subsequent matches will take place in Adelaide on November 15 and Hobart on November 18. Following the ODIs, the teams will compete in a five-match T20I series, commencing in Melbourne on November 21, with additional matches scheduled in Carrara on November 24, Brisbane on November 27, Sydney on November 29, and Canberra on December 2.