Jacob Bethell appointed Birmingham Phoenix captain for 2026 Hundred

England all-rounder Jacob Bethell has been named captain of the Birmingham Phoenix men's team for the 2026 season of The Hundred, taking over the role from Liam Livingstone, who has moved to the London Spirit men's team.

The appointment marks another major leadership milestone for the young England batter, who has quickly established himself as one of the country’s most promising cricketers. Bethell previously made headlines when he became England’s youngest-ever men’s captain, leading the side to a 2-0 T20I series victory in Ireland last September while standing in for the rested Harry Brook.

Despite the surprise surrounding his appointment at the time, Bethell handled the responsibility impressively and has since continued to build leadership experience. Over the winter, he effectively served as Brook’s deputy during England’s white-ball tours of New Zealand and Sri Lanka, as well as during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup.

Bethell has also enjoyed a breakthrough period with the bat. During the past international season, he became the youngest England player to score centuries in all three formats of the game, achieving the milestone with hundreds against Australia in the Ashes and against India in the T20 World Cup semi-final.

Birmingham Phoenix secured Bethell as a £340,000 pre-signing ahead of the upcoming Hundred draft, underlining the franchise’s confidence in his long-term leadership. Speaking after the announcement, Bethell said he was proud to take on the role and hoped to help the team compete strongly in the tournament.

New Phoenix men’s head coach Shane Bond praised Bethell’s leadership qualities, saying the young cricketer had already shown maturity, tactical awareness and the ability to inspire teammates.

Meanwhile, the Phoenix confirmed that Ellyse Perry will continue as captain of the women’s side for a third consecutive season.

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