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League: IPLSport: CricketCountry: IndiaCategory: Scores & Results

Jacob Bethell available for England Test after leaving IPL early

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 2, 2026, 8:08 PM

Last updated Jun 2, 2026

Jacob Bethell available for England Test after leaving IPL early
Summary

England batter Jacob Bethell is ready for selection in the first Test against New Zealand starting Thursday. He exited the IPL 2026 playoffs earlier due to a finger injury but has now recovered, according to head coach Brendon McCullum. Bethell, who previously played for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, is expected to bat at No. 3, replacing Ollie Pope. McCullum emphasized the need for a more refined approach to England's 'Bazball' strategy in light of recent performance evaluations.

Source Links
Yahoo Sports
Status Watch
  • •Jacob Bethell left IPL due to a finger injury.
  • •He is available for England's first Test against New Zealand.
  • •Bethell will bat at No. 3, taking Ollie Pope's position.
  • •McCullum aims for a refined 'Bazball' approach after past setbacks.
Latest Updates
  • 8:08 PMYahoo Sports — RCB batter who left IPL before playoffs is 'absolutely fine' to play for England in Test vs New Zealand as McCullum calls for 'refined' Bazball
What they're saying
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Bethell had cut short his stint with IPL 2026 champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru so he could return home and be assessed by England's medical team ahead of the New Zealand series.

Related Teams & Leagues
Royal Challengers BengaluruIndiaEnglandIPLCricket

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