Jacob Bethell and Ellyse Perry have been appointed captains of the Birmingham Phoenix Men’s and Women’s teams for the 2026 edition of The Hundred.
The duo, who were both retained by the Phoenix during the winter window, have been given captaincy duties ahead of the start of a new era for The Hundred, with the first-ever Major UK Sports Auction taking place in Picadilly Lights later this week.
Bethell, who truly announced himself as a world star with a stunning maiden Ashes century in the fifth test at the Sydney Cricket Ground earlier this year, last week became only the fourth England player to score a century in all three formats after a superb 105 off just 48 balls in the ICC T20 World Cup semi-final defeat to India.
The 22-year-old, who developed through the Warwickshire pathway, was appointed England’s youngest-ever captain for the T20I series against Ireland last year and is excited to make his mark on the Phoenix alongside Head Coach Shane Bond, who is equally enthused at the prospect of working alongside Bethell.
“I’m incredibly proud to be named captain of the Birmingham Phoenix,” Bethell said. “Leading this team is a huge honour, and it’s an opportunity I’m ready for, especially after the experience of captaining England last year. That responsibility taught me a lot about my own leadership and how to bring the best out of a group.
“The Phoenix have huge ambition and an incredible fanbase. We’re committed to playing fearless, exciting cricket and giving our supporters plenty to shout about. I’m really looking forward to what we can achieve together this season.”
Bond said: “Jacob is an outstanding young leader who has already shown maturity beyond his years. His experience captaining England last year demonstrated his tactical awareness and composure, as well as the ability to inspire those around him.
“Having someone like Jacob, who knows so much about what the Phoenix means to people in Birmingham, is invaluable. We’re thrilled to have him leading the side, and I have no doubt he’ll bring out the very best in this group.”
Australian all-round icon Perry will once again take on captaincy honours when she returns to the Phoenix in 2026. Bringing an unparalleled blend of experience, elite performance and leadership, Perry has enjoyed a remarkable global career across international and domestic formats and continues to be a standout performer at the highest level of cricket.
Perry said: “I’m really honoured to captain Birmingham Phoenix Women again. This team means a great deal to me, and I’ve loved being part of a group that is young and hungry to grow and improve.
“I’m excited for what lies ahead. Edgbaston is a special place to play cricket, and I’m looking forward to leading what we’re hoping will be a young and exciting squad of players who can play an eye-catching brand of cricket.”
Maiden said: “Ellyse is an exceptional leader, both on and off the field, and we’re delighted to have her captaining Phoenix Women once again. Her professionalism and calmness under pressure make her a huge asset to this team, and that is priceless for a squad of young players.”
The announcement of Bethell and Perry as captains of the Birmingham Phoenix comes just days before both squads will be finalised at The Hundred’s 2026 auction, which takes place in London later this week.
Rise With Us: Early Bird tickets end soon
A new era for Birmingham Phoenix. And fans can now secure Early Bird tickets for all four home games in 2026.
Join us for blockbuster family entertainment during the summer school holidays. World’s biggest stars in action. Tickets from £20 and kids only £5, if purchased before 1 July.