JACOB'S CRACKER

Young gun Bethell hits brilliant ton as Cook hails him the 'future of England cricket'

- FROM RORY DOLLARD in Sydney

JACOB BETHELL sealed his status as England's next big thing with a name-making Ashes century then claimed: "It was always coming.

The 22-year-old has long been touted as a prodigious talent but was still awaiting his maiden first-class hundred when he came to the crease on day four of the final Test at the SCG.

With a top score of 93 in county cricket, and 96 in a brief Test career only just into its sixth game, he finally went all the way with a majestic ton to strike back at an Australian attack circling in on victory.

England long ago lost the series, and with it a lot of reputation and hope, but they have gained a captivating glimpse into their future.