The Sonny Baker England call-up headlines the latest squad announcement for the upcoming South Africa ODI series. Jacob Bethell will also make history by becoming England Men’s youngest-ever captain during the Ireland T20I tour. These selections mark exciting developments in England’s white-ball cricket plans.
Sonny Baker Earns First England Selection
A maiden England selection has been handed to Sonny Baker after his impressive performances for Hampshire and Manchester Originals. The fast bowler, capable of reaching 90mph, stood out during England Lions tours last winter. His consistent form in domestic white-ball cricket has now earned him a place in the ODI squad to face South Africa. The Sonny Baker England call-up also sees him included in the Ireland T20I squad, giving him immediate international exposure.
Jacob Bethell to Lead England in Ireland
Jacob Bethell’s rapid rise continues as he takes over the captaincy for the Ireland T20I series. At just 21 years old, Bethell will surpass Monty Bowden’s long-standing record from 1889 to become the youngest England Men’s captain. This opportunity comes with Harry Brook and several other multi-format players rested for workload management. England selector Luke Wright praised Bethell’s leadership qualities and said the Ireland series will help him grow further on the international stage.
Breaking 🚨
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) August 15, 2025
England’s 21-year-old all-rounder Jacob Bethell has been named captain for the upcoming T20I series against Ireland!
📸 Getty #JacobBethell #ENGvIRE #T20I #YoungCaptain #CricketNews pic.twitter.com/EAb3bE1MSF
England’s Squad Plans for South Africa and Ireland
The ODI squad remains largely unchanged from the team that swept West Indies 3-0 earlier in the summer. Rehan Ahmed returns to all three squads after a prolific season, while Gus Atkinson, Luke Wood, and Tom Hartley drop out of the ODI group. Hartley, alongside Baker and Matthew Potts, joins Bethell for the Ireland T20Is. England’s T20I squad against South Africa will see Harry Brook continue as captain, supported by a strong mix of experienced players and emerging talent.
Build-Up to a Packed White-Ball Schedule
South Africa’s tour will feature three ODIs and three T20Is, closing England’s home summer. Immediately after, the Ireland T20I series in Malahide will offer further opportunities for younger players like Baker and Bethell to make their mark. With the Sonny Baker England call-up and Bethell’s historic captaincy, England’s white-ball setup continues to blend future stars with seasoned performers.
