Bethell rewarded with England deal

ENGLAND newcomer Jacob Bethell has received a double dose of good news – keeping his place for the second Test against New Zealand and landing a two-year central contract.

- RORY DOLLARD

The batsman made an unplanned Test debut in last week's series-opening win in Christchurch – only coming into consideration after Jordan Cox broke a thumb in practice – and ended the match with an ebullient, unbeaten 50 at number three.

England have opted to retain a winning formula for the follow-up in Wellington, meaning Ollie Pope's temporary stint as stand-in wicketkeeper continues despite the arrival of Durham's Ollie Robinson as specialist cover.

And, having secured his spot for the next few days, 21-year-old Bethell has also persuaded the England and Wales Cricket Board tie up his longer-term future.

Less than six weeks after announcing a new raft of player deals, the ECB has upgraded Bethell from a low-key developmental contract to a more lucrative retainer that runs until October 2026.