Dan Mousley says his call-up to England’s T20 squad has realised a childhood dream – and that getting the nod alongside good friend and Bears teammate Jacob Bethell makes the selection even more special.
The all-rounder has been picked in Jos Buttler’s 15-man squad for the three-match Vitality IT20 series starting at the Utilita Bowl, Southampton, on 11 September.
Mousley has represented England at Under-19s and also won England Lions honours – scoring 68 against India A on his debut in January – but it’s the first time he’s been included in the senior international squad.
He described it as the “number one” moment in his life to date.
“I was in London with my mum and girlfriend at the time when the call came,” said Mousley. “I know there had been some chatter about potential selection but I wasn’t expecting the call, it caught me by surprise. It was only a four-minute chat but a big milestone in my life.
“It’s pretty cool. I’m really chuffed and to do it with Bethell is even better.
“I’ve known Jacob since he came to the country. I’ve spent a lot of time with him especially in the last four or five years, every day together, rooming with him on Championship and T20 games.
“We’d always said hopefully one day we’ll play for England together so to get the call on the same day was perfect. “
“As a kid growing up all you want is to play for England. To get that call to say you’re in the squad was awesome.”
Mousley – who made his Warwickshire debut in July 2019 – has played 77 times for Bears, including 43 in the shortest format of the game where he averages nearly 30 and has eight half-centuries to his name.
Commentators have drawn similarities between him and Bethell as two commanding, explosive batters, great fielders, and effective spin bowlers.
Mousley added: “We are similar in the way we approach the game, but I’ve moved more towards the top of the order this year and Bethell is batting five or six. How Jacob takes the game on is incredible, especially at his age. I’ve not seen many people do that.
“We play the game the same way, and talk about it in the same way. We’re always trying to win the game and looking for ways to take it on. That’s one thing we have in common.
“On the fielding front, we push each other as much as we can. We’ll do extra fielding sessions, 1-2-1 sessions together when batting and bowling, and bounce ideas off each other. We both want each other to do the best we can.
“When I got the phone call to say I’d been chosen, the adrenalin kicked in straight away. You’re like, wow! But once you’re in the environment you get into the moment and enjoy it.
“It’s not any other game, it’s a chance to represent your country. This is why we play cricket, to one day play for England. So you have to enjoy it. I’m looking forward to it, to get stuck in, play with the senior England guys, and enjoy the challenge.”
Over 13,500 tickets sold for T20 quarter-final
For a third year in a row, Bears have secured a home Vitality Blast quarter-final against Gloucestershire on Friday 6 September. And tickets are going fast!
Over 13,500 tickets have already been sold. Adults tickets are available for only £20, if purchased in advance, while U16s are £5.
