Buttler hails 'mature' Bethell despite England's defeat

England captain Jos Buttler praised 21-year-old Jacob Bethell for showing composure under pressure despite his side's four-wicket defeat to India in the first one-day international in Nagpur on 6 February.

With the Champions Trophy on the horizon, England struggled to 248 all out before India chased down the target with 11.2 overs to spare, securing victory in the opening game of the three-match series.

The left-handed Bethell stood out with a composed 51 off 64 balls in just his ninth ODI, particularly after England found themselves in trouble at 111-4. He shared a 59-run partnership with Buttler, briefly raising hopes of a competitive total.

Reflecting on Bethell's innings, Buttler said: "I was watching him bat and thinking, 'I couldn't remember how to bat at 21'. It took me until I was about 28, I think. I'm really pleased for him.

"He didn't find it easy at the start, but he was very mature, measured, soaked up some pressure and came through it. It was a really mature innings from him, and he'll learn a lot from this. It's a great experience."

England, playing their first ODI under new coach Brendon McCullum, elected to bat first but lost wickets at regular intervals, folding in 47.4 overs.

Bethell initially struggled for fluency, crawling to eight off 27 deliveries, before breaking free with a six off Hardik Pandya. After Buttler departed for 52, England's middle order faltered, but Bethell held firm to reach his second ODI half-century. He eventually fell lbw to Ravindra Jadeja.

The all-rounder later chipped in with the ball, dismissing Shreyas Iyer for 59 with his left-arm spin. However, it wasn't enough to prevent India from sealing a comfortable victory.

Bethell finished with figures of 1-18 from his three overs.

The series continues with the second ODI in Cuttack on 9 February.