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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Rory Dollard

We do know what we’re doing – Ben Stokes defends Jacob Bethell Test selection

Ben Stokes Jacob Bethell Test New Zealand Baz Ollie Pope ICC
Ben Stokes (pictured) has opted for the untried Jacob Bethell to bat at number three in the opening Test against New Zealand (John Walton/PA) - (PA Wire)

England captain Ben Stokes has defended the decision to hand rookie batter Jacob Bethell a Test debut in the pivotal number three slot against New Zealand, telling fans: “we do know what we’re doing”.

A selection reshuffle enforced by Jordan Cox’s broken thumb means Ollie Pope will take the wicketkeeping gloves for the first Test in Christchurch, which starts on Wednesday night at 10pm GMT, as well as dropping drown to six in the batting order.

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