England batsman Jacob Bethell is poised to feature in the opening Test of the home summer against New Zealand, which begins on June 4 at Lord’s Cricket Ground. The left-handed batsman returned from the Indian Premier League (IPL) to undergo treatment on his injured finger.
England’s medical team is currently assessing Bethell’s condition. However, reports indicate the injury is not severe, with the Warwickshire prospect expected to be fit for next week’s first Test.
“Following a review of Jacob Bethell’s left ring finger injury, he will continue to be monitored in the lead-up to the Rothesay first Test against New Zealand, starting on Thursday June 4 at Lord’s, and he is expected to be fit to play in the match,” an ECB statement read.
Bethell was part of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) squad that topped the standings. However, the opener departed the camp before the playoffs and therefore did not participate in Qualifier 1 against the Gujarat Titans. As he has already returned to England, the 22-year-old will also miss the championship final in Ahmedabad on Sunday, May 31.
If selected for the first Test against New Zealand, Bethell is likely to bat at number three in the innings. He has secured his spot in the team following his impressive 154-run innings in the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney earlier this year.
England have adequate cover within the squad to replace Bethell if needed. Somerset’s James Rew could earn his international debut and come in for the RCB player in the lineup after scoring 478 runs in six County Championship matches this season.
Bethell previously missed the opening Test of last year’s international summer due to IPL commitments. He is now set to potentially feature in all six Tests at home, including three against New Zealand and another three against Pakistan in August.