Royal Challengers Bengaluru have been dealt a setback just before the IPL 2026 playoffs, with Jacob Bethell officially ruled out for the remainder of the tournament. The young England batter has returned to the United Kingdom after suffering a finger injury during RCB’s recent league-stage clash against Punjab Kings.
Bethell injured his left ring finger while fielding in the match on May 17. The England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed that their medical team will now monitor his recovery closely. His fitness will be important ahead of England’s first Test against New Zealand, which begins at Lord’s on June 4.
Bethell featured in seven matches for RCB this season and scored 96 runs. He came into the side during Phil Salt’s absence and gave the team useful starts at the top. While his numbers were modest, his presence added flexibility to Bengaluru’s batting lineup during a key stretch of the league stage.
RCB now head into the playoffs without him after finishing at the top of the points table. They are set to take on Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 on May 26 in Dharamsala, with a place in the final at stake.
There is some positive news for Bengaluru though. Phil Salt has fully recovered from his finger injury and is expected to return to the opening slot alongside Virat Kohli for the playoffs. If RCB decide to look at another option, Venkatesh Iyer, who opened in their final league match, remains available as a strong backup at the top.
Bethell’s exit is unfortunate timing for both player and franchise. RCB will now hope their experienced players can carry the momentum into the knockout stage, while England will be hoping the injury does not affect his Test availability next month.