HEAVEN FOR BETHELL

Jacob in dreamland after rapid rise up the ladder

- RORY DOLLARD

JACOB BETHELL called his Test debut "everything I've dreamed of" after scoring the winning run in England's thumping victory over New Zealand.

Bethell was catapulted into the side in Christchurch after Jordan Cox broke a thumb during the warm-up match in Queenstown.

That saw Ollie Pope take over as wicketkeeper and a vacancy open up at No.3.

The fact that Bethell, 21, had never batted there in domestic cricket did not deter England, and the experiment came up trumps as they chased down a modest target of 104.

Bethell, dismissed for 10 in the first innings, struck eight fours and a huge six as he made a 50 in just 37 balls to finish the match in true 'Bazball' style.