Jacob Bethell has made history by becoming the youngest-ever captain of the England national cricket team.

The 21-year-old all-rounder will lead the side in the upcoming T20I series against Ireland, scheduled to take place in Dublin from September 17 to 21.

The Warwickshire star has rapidly risen through the ranks and is regarded as one of England’s most promising young talents. This series is being considered a key part of England’s preparations for the ICC T20 World Cup next year.

Bethell’s appointment breaks a long-standing record set by Monty Bowden, who captained England at the age of 23 years and 144 days during a Test match against South Africa in 1888/89.

Now, Bethell’s name enters the record books as the youngest player to lead England at the international level.

So far in his international career, Bethell has played 4 Tests, 13 T20Is and 12 ODIs.

Earlier this month, he was included in the squad for the fifth Test against India, stepping in for the injured Ben Stokes.

However, he could only manage scores of 6 and 5 in the two innings.

England selector Luke Wright commented, “Jacob has already shown strong leadership qualities and inspired those around him. This series gives him a great opportunity to further prove himself on the international stage.”

England Squad for T20I Series vs Ireland:

Jacob Bethell (Captain), Rehan Ahmed, Sonny Baker, Tom Banton, Jos Buttler, Tom Hartley, Will Jacks, Saqib Mahmood, Jamie Overton, Matthew Potts, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt (Wicketkeeper), Luke Wood.