England’s test summer has drawn to a close. But the selection dilemma looms. Who among Emilio Gay, Jordan Cox and Jamie Smith should give way for Jacob Bethell’s return? Former England captain Nasser Hussain has weighed in on this tricky puzzle.
What Did Nasser Hussain Say About Jacob Bethell’s Return? Who among Emilio Gay, Jordan Cox and Jamie Smith Gets the Axe?
Bethell broke out on the scene with a magnificent 154 at Sydney. Hussain, speaking on Sky Sports Cricket, pointed out that a singular innings tilted the scales in Bethell’s favour.
“I would probably bring him (Jacob Bethell) straight back in at 3 only because of that innings,” Hussain said. “Well, because he’s a very good player, by the way.
“But you can’t produce that innings at Sydney the way he did and not have a test match future and a long test match future. He’s got everything that you need to be successful. So I would bring him back in.”
Bethell averages 34.05 across his 9 Test appearances. Heavily tipped to occupy his favoured number-three role. The big question is simple. Who makes way?
Cox made 3 half-centuries in the Pakistan series. Smith had 2 half-centuries, and Gay got decent starts, easing the way for the middle-order.
“I want an opener, and I want a proper frontline spinner. I would stick with Emilio Gay this summer,” Hussain expressed.
Then what is the option left? Shifting Cox to a wicketkeeper’s role, dropping Smith. But Hussain disagreed.
“The other option is obviously you then give Jordan Cox the gloves, and you axe Jamie Smith. Now I wouldn’t do that because Jamie Smith has gloved it really well for three test matches,” Hussain added.
A tough South Africa tour awaits, and it seems England has a headache. That they won’t mind.
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