RCB's Jacob Bethell returns to England to recuperate from left ring finger injury

Royal Challengers Bangalore's Jacob Bethell will return to England to treat a left ring finger injury, potentially affecting his availability for England's Test series against New Zealand.

Royal Challengers Bangalore opener Jacob Bethell will return to England to tend to a left ring finger injury that he sustained while playing in the IPL.

Bethell had an underwhelming season, scoring just 77 runs from seven matches at an average of 13 and at a strike rate of 124.

''The England and Wales Cricket Board has agreed that Royal Challengers Bangalore top-order batter Jacob Bethell will return to the UK after sustaining an injury while playing in the Indian Premier League,'' stated a ECB release.

Bethell, who stepped in for injured compatriot Phil Salt at RCB, is a part of England's Test squad to face New Zealand in a home series, which starts on June 4.

Salt has since then rejoined the Royal Challengers squad.

''He will be fully assessed and monitored by the England Men's medical team on his return to determine his availability for selection for the Rothesay first Test against New Zealand at Lord's, starting on Thursday 4 June,'' the release added.