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
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.
- •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.
- 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
"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.
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