Priyanka Tiwari
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England's cricket team has suffered a significant blow with all-rounder Jacob Bethell set to be sidelined for an extended period due to a hamstring injury. Bethell, who played a crucial innings with a well-compiled fifty in the opening ODI against India in Nagpur, was absent from the second game in Cuttack on Sunday, February 9. England made three changes in their lineup as they fought to stay in the series.
Bethell’s Injury Update and Expected Recovery Time
According to a PA report quoted by Sky Sports, Bethell felt discomfort in his upper left leg after the first ODI. Subsequent scans revealed a suspected tear, ruling him out for four to six weeks. As a result, England has called up wicketkeeper-batter Tom Banton from Dubai as cover. Banton recently showcased exceptional form in the ILT20, where he smashed two centuries playing for MI Emirates.
Meanwhile, wicketkeeper Jamie Smith, who had been dealing with a calf issue, is expected to regain fitness in time for the third ODI.
Potential Impact on Champions Trophy and IPL 2025
The injury timeline suggests that Bethell could miss the entire Champions Trophy and potentially a few IPL 2025 matches. He was set to join Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the tournament.
"I'm pretty sure Bethell has been ruled out of the Champions Trophy, to be honest," England captain Jos Buttler stated after the team's defeat in the second ODI. "That's really disappointing for him. He played nicely the other day and has been one of the really exciting players. It's a shame that injury is going to rule him out."
Possible Replacements for England
While Banton has been drafted as cover for the ODI series, England might explore further replacements, including:
- Liam Dawson, who excelled for Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the SA20. His left-arm orthodox spin and lower-order hitting could offer a like-for-like option.
- Sam Curran, who was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the ILT20 while playing for Desert Vipers.
England’s Remaining Fixtures
With India's four-wicket win in Cuttack, England has already lost the ODI series. However, they will be eager to avoid a whitewash in the third and final match. Following a 10-day break, they will kick off their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign against Australia on February 22 in Lahore.
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