For Jason Holder, the former West Indies captain, seeing Barbados-born Jacob Bethell picked for England leaves a ‘bittersweet’ feeling. Bethell is part of England’s squad for their white-ball tour of the Caribbean (which starts on Thursday, live on TNT Sports in the UK) and as Mail Sport revealed earlier this week, the 21-year-old is part of the touring party for the Test series against New Zealand. ‘I met Jacob (Bethell) at the airport during the U19 World Cup in 2022,’ says Holder, who is also from Barbados.  ‘I’d heard of him and then I first saw him play on Brian Lara’s Instagram page. He must have been about 12 or 13 years old. He was very small but Brian talked him up to be special and you can see that because he looks at home on the international circuit.  'It’s no surprise to see England backing him with their mantra and hopefully he grabs the opportunity and makes the most of it. Moments like this - we’ve had Chris Jordan, Jofra Archer and now Bethell - leave kind of a bittersweet feeling because we’re losing great cricketers to England but also I'm happy for them because they're playing international cricket.’

Jacob Bethell's Rise to International Cricket

Jacob Bethell’s journey to the international stage is a testament to his talent and dedication. His early promise was evident at a young age, with the likes of cricketing legend Brian Lara recognizing his potential. Bethell’s performance against Australia last month in what was his first taste of international cricket further solidified his talent. His ability to adapt and perform at the highest level has earned him a spot in England’s white-ball tour of the Caribbean, followed by the Test series against New Zealand. This is a significant step in his career, and the cricketing world will be closely watching his progress.

Bethell's Rise: A Story of Talent and Dedication

Bethell's journey to international cricket is a captivating one. Recognized by Lara at a young age, Bethell's potential was evident from early on. His performance against Australia, marking his international debut, proved his talent and adaptability. This achievement has now led him to the white-ball tour of the Caribbean and the Test series against New Zealand. Bethell's rise is an inspiration to young cricketers, proving that hard work and dedication can lead to extraordinary success.

Jofra Archer's Test Cricket Ambitions

Holder also expressed his support for Jofra Archer, another Barbados-born cricketer who has represented England. Archer, who is part of England’s squad for the three ODIs and five T20Is, has faced a challenging period due to injuries, leading to limited Test appearances in recent years. ‘Jofra’s body will tell him what he can and can’t do. He’s a cricket nut. He loves the game but his body is the only thing that can tell him. Either way, it’s good to have him fit for sure,’ Holder said.

Archer's Recovery and Test Cricket Aspirations

Archer's journey back to fitness has been a tough one. He has faced numerous injuries in recent years, impacting his Test cricket appearances. Despite this, Archer remains passionate about the game, with his body dictating the next steps in his career. Holder expresses optimism about Archer's recovery, emphasizing the importance of his fitness. Archer's return to the Test arena would undoubtedly be a significant event in the cricketing world.

England's Upcoming Tour of the West Indies

The West Indies, meanwhile, are ready for a fierce competition against England. Holder emphasized that the West Indies have no fear of the upcoming white-ball tour, recognizing the historical rivalry and the importance of this series on the global stage. England's Test team hasn't won a series in the Caribbean since 2004, and their white-ball team has lost their last three series. However, Holder maintains that the West Indies are confident in their abilities and ready to face the challenge. He also highlighted the significance of this tour, stating that a win against England would be recognized worldwide. The tour will be a fascinating clash of styles and talent, with both teams aiming for victory. England will be led during the ODI leg of the tour by Liam Livingstone, with Jos Buttler continuing his recovery following a calf injury that has kept him out since July. Buttler hopes to return for the T20 series, which begins on November 9.

West Indies Ready to Face the English Challenge

Despite England's recent struggles in the Caribbean, the West Indies are prepared for a tough competition. They are eager to reclaim their dominance in the series and prove their abilities on the international stage. The upcoming tour will be a crucial battle, with both teams fighting for victory. The West Indies are confident in their abilities and are ready to face the challenge head-on.

England's Tour of the West Indies: A Show of Skill and Strategy

This upcoming tour will be a high-stakes affair, a clash of cricketing titans. With the West Indies aiming to reclaim their dominance, and England hoping to break their recent losing streak in the Caribbean, the stage is set for a captivating series. The matches will be a testament to the skill, strategy, and determination of both teams, offering a feast of cricketing brilliance for fans worldwide. The tour promises exciting encounters, thrilling moments, and a glimpse into the future of international cricket.

Tune in to England's tour of the West Indies, starting with the first ODI live on TNT Sports 1 from 5.30pm on 31st October.