Jacob Bethell will fly back to UK after left ring finger injury sustained playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL, ECB says. He missed RCB's match vs Sunrisers Hyderabad. He will be assessed by England men's medical team to decide availability for Rothesay first Test against New Zealand. He hopes to resume county duties with Warwickshire once cleared.

Bethell's last IPL appearance came May 17, opening with Virat Kohli and scoring 11 from seven balls before RCB edged a 23‑run win. His IPL spell has been uneven, with low scores of five against Gujarat Titans and four versus Lucknow Super Giants. Early in the tournament he sat out six games, prompting Sir Alastair Cook to urge a county return. Those limited contributions have raised questions about his role in England's plans.

The ECB confirmed the repatriation was agreed with RCB, underscoring cooperation between board and franchise. Kevin Pietersen later defended Bethell, mocking Cook’s comments about IPL experience. With the England squad still finalising its line‑up, Bethell’s fitness will dictate whether the 22‑year‑old adds depth for the New Zealand series, a decision now in the medical team’s hands. Potentially for the second Test.