Jacob Bethell becomes new captain to replace RCB-winner ahead of IPL 2026

The recent centurion from England’s T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal against India at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Jacob Bethell, has been handed over the leadership in the Hundred for the 2026 season after he got the opportunity to captain the Birmingham Phoenix. The left-handed batter broke the 136-year record to become their youngest-ever men’s captain when he led the side in Ireland. 

The appointment of being the Phoenix captain came as a massive surprise, but a suggestion of their motivation to put the player in the deep end, having seen his previous leadership experience with England’s Under-19s. Jacob Bethell recently became the youngest to celebrate centuries across the three formats.

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“I'm incredibly proud to be named captain of the Birmingham Phoenix. Leading this team is a huge honour, and it's an opportunity I'm ready for, especially after the experience of captaining England last year. That responsibility taught me a lot about my own leadership and how to bring the best out of a group.” Bethell expressed.

Jacob Bethell to lead in The Hundred 2026

The England player was pre-signed by the franchise ahead of the auction as he will take the place of the veteran, Liam Livington, who has signed with the London Spirit. The former New Zealand bowler, Shane Bond, who took over from Daniel Vettori as the men’s head coach of the side, has addressed the same.

“Jacob is an outstanding young leader who has already shown maturity beyond his years. His experience captaining England last year demonstrated his tactical awareness and composure, as well as the ability to inspire those around him.” Bond revealed that the Phoenix confirmed Ellyse Perry to continue as the women’s captain for the third season in a row.

“I'm really honoured to captain Birmingham Phoenix Women again. Edgbaston is a special place to play cricket, and I'm looking forward to leading what we're hoping will be a young and exciting squad of players who can play an eye-catching brand of cricket.” Perry highlighted.