Bethell out of Australia trip and doubt for SA

Jacob Bethell has been ruled out of England’s white-ball tour of Australia after a recurrence of his right knee injury, and is now a major doubt for the Test tour of South Africa. The setback delays the 23-year-old’s return after surgery and threatens England’s plans across all three formats, as well as his chance to build on a standout Test innings against Australia.

Bethell last played for England in July, when he felt discomfort during an ODI against India, and had travelled to Australia hoping to return. A training setback prompted a scan and he will go home to see a specialist; Sussex all-rounder James Coles has been called up, while Eddie Jack replaces the injured Josh Tongue in the ODI squad. England’s South Africa Tests begin on 17 December, and possible batting cover includes Ollie Pope, James Rew and Ben McKinney.