Ireland vs England: Jacob Bethell has ‘no pre-conceived ideas’ over skippering England as 21-year-old prepares to break age record for captain

It is just over a year since Bethell made his England debut against Australia in a T20 at the Utilita Bowl, and the all-rounder says it is “pretty cool” to be making his captaincy bow.

“Looking on a year from then, I’m pretty proud of what I’ve done in a year and pleased I’ve been given this opportunity,” he said.

“It shows I’ve got a bit of backing in terms of me as a character, not just me as a cricketer. I’ve loved every minute so far.”

England’s squad for their much-anticipated Ashes tour of Australia, beginning in November, is due to be announced next week.

Bethell said he is fully focused on the task in hand amid suggestions England could pick him to bat at number three in place of Ollie Pope against the Aussies.

“My head’s firmly screwed on to this series, I’m not thinking too far ahead,” said Barbados-born Bethell.

“The squad’s not even selected for that yet so hopefully I’m going to be there.

“We’ve got a few things to do before then. Nothing’s been confirmed for the Ashes yet so I’ve not been thinking too much about it.”

Batter Jordan Cox is set to replace Brook in the middle order against Ireland while one of Sonny Baker or Scott Currie will take Jofra Archer’s place in the bowling attack.