Jacob Bethell has become a significant injury concern for England after withdrawing from The Hundred due to a knee issue. Initially set to captain the Birmingham Phoenix, he has undergone an MRI following an injury sustained during the ODI series against India.

With just under a month remaining until England's Test team faces Pakistan in a three-match series starting on 19 August, the severity of Bethell's injury remains uncertain. His potential absence could complicate matters for the ECB as they continue to seek a new captain and head coach following the retirement of Ben Stokes and the dismissal of Brendon McCullum.

Bethell showcased his talent with a solid 91 at Lord’s in the third ODI on Sunday and recorded his highest Test score on home soil, 74, in his last red-ball match at Trent Bridge against New Zealand.

Participating in The Hundred would have offered Bethell invaluable leadership experience as England's youngest-ever captain. He previously led the team in a T20 series in Ireland last year and could be a strong candidate for a more permanent captaincy role if white-ball skipper Harry Brook is promoted to Test captaincy.

Expressing his disappointment, Bethell stated, "It’s frustrating to miss out on The Hundred, especially representing Birmingham Phoenix in front of our supporters at Edgbaston. Unfortunately, I need to take the time to get back to full fitness. My focus now is on completing my rehabilitation and returning fully fit. I’d like to thank the fans, my teammates, and the medical staff for all their support, and I’ll be cheering the boys on throughout the competition."

Donovan Ferreira, the versatile South African all-rounder, will step in as captain of the Phoenix. Shane Bond’s side is set to kick off their Hundred campaign against the Trent Rockets on Friday.