Jacob Bethell May Be Banned From Bowling During England vs Sri Lanka! Here's Why

Jacob Bethell doubful to bowl [Source: AFP]

England have been dealt with an untimely setback ahead of their crucial ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash against Sri Lanka in Pallekele. All-rounder Jacob Bethell, who starred at this venue only weeks ago, may be barred from bowling due to a hand injury that requires strapping. 

With spin expected to play a major role on Sunday, England had hoped to use his left-arm option. However, tournament rules leave that decision firmly in the hands of the umpires. 

Also Read - England Playing XI vs Sri Lanka- T20 World Cup 2026, Super 8– Jos Buttler Dropped?

Jacob Bethell picks up a hand injury

For context, Jacob Bethell damaged his left ring finger while fielding against the West Indies and has been wearing protective tape ever since. Under tournament regulations, any protection on the hand or fingers requires umpire approval, particularly if a player intends to bowl. 

While fielders are generally allowed to wear tape, bowlers face stricter scrutiny because it can be seen as offering extra grip or affecting visibility for batters. Captain Harry Brook admitted the rule is unlikely to work in England’s favour. 

The team has already made similar requests in recent matches against Scotland and Italy, without success. 

England would prefer to have Jacob Bethell spin available as a spinner, especially given the conditions in Pallekele, where slower bowlers have found assistance. His previous figures of 4 for 11 against Sri Lanka at the same ground suggest what they could be missing.

Spin, weather and uncertain conditions at Pallekele

Meanwhile, spin played a key role in England's 3-0 series win in Sri Lanka before the World Cup, and the surface remains similar. Australia’s win over Oman here also proved how effective slower bowlers can be. 

With Will Jacks struggling for control at times in the tournament, Jacob Bethell's absence as a bowling option would reduce England’s flexibility.

There are further concerns about the weather. Rain has been frequent in Pallekele, leaving parts of the outfield patchy and soft. Forecasts suggest the possibility of interruptions or even a shortened game. For a result to stand in the Super 8 stage, both teams must bat at least five overs.

Harry Brook has urged his players to prepare for a full T20 rather than overthink reduced-overs scenarios. England carry confidence, having beaten Sri Lanka 11 straight times in this format, including three recent wins at this venue. 

Still, with injury doubts over Jacob Bethell and uncertain conditions, Sunday's contest promises to test both their depth and adaptability.

Jacob Bethell takes a dig at Australia

Amid this, Jacob Bethell took a playful swipe at Australia after their surprise group-stage exit from the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, admitting it was 'good to see' their Ashes rivals fall short. 

Australia began brightly with a win over Ireland but quickly lost momentum, suffering defeats to Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka that ended their Super 8 hopes. Rain in a key fixture confirmed their elimination. 

Jacob Bethell said Australia never truly got going in the tournament. Despite strong T20 form in recent years, their early exit shocked the fans, though Adam Zampa dismissed claims of a lack of commitment to the format.

Also Read - SL vs ENG Head To Head Records- Super 8, ICC T20 World Cup 2026