Tourists Dominate as England XI Seal Comfortable Win, but Bethell Misses Chance to Impress

England XI cruised to a commanding first-innings victory over the Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra, but the match raised as many questions as answers for rising prospect Jacob Bethell.

Chasing the hosts’ 308 for 8 declared, the tourists reached 309 for 2 before the teams shook hands, with four England batters posting half-centuries in a largely one-sided contest. James Rew led the way with an unbeaten 92, supported by Tom Haines (77), Asa Tribe (53*) and Emelio Gay (56* retired hurt).

However, Bethell—seen as the most intriguing selection in what was effectively a Lions side—failed to take advantage of the opportunity presented by the absence of England’s Test regulars. The left-hander edged behind for 16, pushing at a ball outside off stump from South Australian quick Campbell Thompson, finishing as the only England batter not to pass fifty.

The dismissal came at a time when Bethell is competing with Ollie Pope for a place in England’s Test top order. Pope remains the preferred option and was among the strongest performers in Perth, but Bethell’s recent Lions scores of 3, 77, and 40 had kept him firmly in the conversation. A major contribution in Canberra might have increased pressure ahead of the second Test at the Gabba should England’s batting falter again.

One concern for England came when opener Emelio Gay was forced to retire hurt with a hamstring issue in the first session, though the injury’s severity remains unclear.

The Prime Minister’s XI used eight bowlers throughout the innings, with Thompson (1–46) and Charlie Anderson (1–51) the only wicket-takers. Despite their efforts, England’s top order remained largely untroubled as the tourists secured a comprehensive and confidence-boosting result.