New Zealand vs England: Jacob Bethell ‘would have asked to bat three’

Jacob Bethell said he would have asked to bat at number three on his Test debut had he not been given the “surprise” invitation to do so by England.

The 21-year-old made an unbeaten 50 off 37 balls, including the winning runs, in England’s eight-wicket defeat of New Zealand in the first Test in Christchurch.

Bethell had never previously batted above number four in his first-class career.

“I would have asked for it to be honest,” said Bethell. “I like batting up the order so I was really happy that opportunity arose.

“I’ve always wanted to bat in the top four, so three is perfect.”

Bethell, initially on the New Zealand tour as batting cover, was put in line for his Test debut after an injury to wicketkeeper Jordan Cox.

Ollie Pope, England’s regular number three, stood in as wicketkeeper. In order to balance his workload, Pope moved down to number six, leaving the vacancy for Bethell.

The Warwickshire man managed 10 in the first innings, not looking out of place in difficult batting conditions against the skilful New Zealand attack.

In the second innings, with England chasing only 104, Bethell crashed eight fours and a six as England reached their target inside 13 overs at Hagley Oval.

“It’s everything I’ve dreamed of,” said Bethell. “It lived up to expectation. It was so fun.

“It was my first experience playing in front of packed grass banks, pristine outfield, good pitches and playing against a good team, so it was great.”