Young England all-rounder Jacob Bethell had a dream debut in the first Test against New Zealand at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, registering the second-fastest fifty on Test debut in cricket history. His explosive unbeaten 50 off just 37 balls, featuring eight fours and a six at a strike rate of 135.13, played a key role in England’s commanding eight-wicket victory.
Bethell’s milestone puts him behind only New Zealand’s Tim Southee, who scored an unbeaten 77 off 40 balls at a strike rate of 192.50 during his debut against England in 2008. Bethell’s performance also surpassed the previous second-fastest fifty on debut by Luke Ronchi, who struck 88 off 70 balls at Headingley in 2015.
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The 20-year-old all-rounder, known for his aggressive batting in limited-overs formats, has quickly risen through the ranks. Since making his white-ball debut in September 2024, Bethell has been a standout performer in both T20Is and ODIs, with impressive averages and strike rates. Recently, he was acquired by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for ₹2.6 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, underlining his growing stature in global cricket.
Bethell’s promotion to bat at number three in the Test lineup initially raised eyebrows, but his calm and powerful innings have solidified his position. With two more Tests remaining in the series, Bethell has the opportunity to further cement his place in the side.
England opted to field first after winning the toss. New Zealand posted 348 in their first innings, with Kane Williamson (93) and Glenn Phillips (58) leading the way. Brydon Carse (4/64) and Shoaib Bashir (4/69) were the standout bowlers for England.
England replied with a commanding 499, fueled by Harry Brook’s stunning 171 and crucial contributions from Ollie Pope (77) and skipper Ben Stokes (80). This gave the visitors a solid 151-run lead.
In their second innings, New Zealand managed 254, with notable fifties from Williamson (61) and Daryl Mitchell (84). Carse claimed 6/42, completing a ten-wicket match haul, while Chris Woakes added three wickets to restrict the hosts.
Chasing 103 for victory, England completed the task with ease in just 12.4 overs, thanks to Bethell’s unbeaten fifty and a quickfire 23* from Joe Root.
Brydon Carse earned the award for his outstanding ten-wicket haul and a vital 33* in England’s first innings.
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