Injury Concerns for Jacob Bethell Ahead of England's Test Against New Zealand
England batter Jacob Bethell faces an assessment for a finger injury less than two weeks before the first Test against New Zealand. The 22-year-old missed the Indian Premier League match for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Friday, May 31, as the defending champions qualified for the play-offs. Bethell's absence was initially viewed as precautionary, but the upcoming assessment aims to determine the injury's severity. Despite starting the tournament on the sidelines, he joined the RCB squad after an injury to fellow England international Phil Salt. In seven innings, Bethell's performance has been modest, with a highest score of 27. His participation in the IPL instead of first-class cricket for Warwickshire has sparked debate among cricket analysts. After a breakthrough century in the final Ashes Test in Sydney, Bethell is set to bat at number three for England, a first in a home Test, despite limited red-ball experience. Former England captain Sir Alastair Cook criticized Bethell's IPL involvement, suggesting he should return to help Warwickshire. In response, ex-teammate Kevin Pietersen defended Bethell, arguing that the IPL experience is invaluable for his development. As England prepares for the Test, changes to the batting line-up are already underway following a disappointing 4-1 defeat in Australia. Emilio Gay from Durham is set to make his Test debut, replacing the omitted Zak Crawley. James Rew, an uncapped left-hander from Somerset, joins the squad as batting cover, poised to step in if Bethell cannot play.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-05-22