Ben Stokes admits he is managing "the back end of my career" after choosing to skip the Indian Premier League and prioritise his time in international cricket.

Ben Stokes said he can understand why some people may have concerns about handing Jacob Bethell his test debut at number three against New Zealand but the England captain has no doubts the 21-year-old can have a positive impact on the side.

Follow live coverage of New Zealand vs England from the England in New Zealand 2024 today. The ICC Test Championship sees nine teams compete across a two-year cycle of matches before a two-team final decides the winner.

Jacob Bethell will bat at number three on his Test debut in England's series opener against New Zealand in Christchurch on Thursday.

England's Jacob Bethell will bat at number three for the first time in first-class cricket when he makes his test debut against New Zealand at Christchurch's Hagley Oval on Thursday.

England have handed a debut to uncapped youngster Jacob Bethell as they named their playing XI for the opening Test of the three-match series against New Zealand, starting on Thursday at Hagley Oval.

Following are facts and figures ahead of the three-match test series between New Zealand and England, which begins on Thursday: FIXTURES First test: Nov. 28-Dec. 02, Hagley Oval, Christchurch Second test: Dec.