England confirms Pope at No.3 for Ashes as Rob Key hails Bethell’s potential
England team director Rob Key has hailed Jacob Bethell as a potential “generational talent” but confirmed Ollie Pope will continue at number three for the upcoming Ashes in Australia.
Bethell, who turns 22 later this month, became the youngest player to captain an England men’s side when he led the T20I series against Ireland in September. He has since been included in England’s 16-man squad for the five-Test series, sparking debate over whether he might replace Pope at first drop.
Speaking on the For The Love Of Cricket podcast, Key said Bethell was central to England’s long-term plans but Pope remains first choice.
“At the moment, Pope is the one that’s in possession of that (number three),” Key said. “There’s a bit of cricket for Bethell to come… He looks just one of those players that could be a generational talent, in all formats.”
Key also highlighted Bethell’s leadership potential and influence within the squad.
“He becomes someone you’re looking at in the far future, as potential leadership. Leaders aren’t just your captain,” he said. “He’s a conduit between (Ben) Stokes and the younger generation coming through.”
Praising the left-hander’s qualities, Key added: “When you watch him, he’s got time. He plays well off the back foot. If you’re just off, he can really put you under pressure. He passes the 40-second test — you think, ‘wow, this kid could be amazing.’”
The Ashes begin in Perth on November 21.
Published on Oct 01, 2025
