Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans, there’s a new Kiwi in town! With England’s Jacob Bethell heading home for national duties, RCB has signed New Zealand’s explosive wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert as a temporary replacement. The change comes right before the end of the IPL 2025 league stage, as RCB pushes hard for a top-two finish.
All You Need to Know
| Player Out | Jacob Bethell (England) |
| Reason for Exit | National duty with England |
| Last Match with RCB | May 23, 2025 vs Sunrisers Hyderabad |
| Player In | Tim Seifert (New Zealand) |
| Joining RCB From | Karachi Kings (PSL) |
| Available From | May 24, 2025 |
| Latest Joining Date | May 26, 2025 (vs LSG in Lucknow) |
| RCB Signing Fee | INR 2 Crore |
| IPL Experience | Played for KKR (2021) & DC (2022) |
| T20I Stats | 66 matches, 1540 runs |
Why Tim Seifert?
Tim Seifert is known for his aggressive top-order batting. He has scored 226 runs in 9 innings in the PSL 2025 for Karachi Kings, striking at an impressive 145.80. While he hasn’t had a long IPL stint before, his form and T20I experience make him a solid pick.
What Happened with Bethell?
Jacob Bethell was a pleasant surprise for RCB. In just two matches this season, he showed his talent — especially in his 55 off 33 balls against Chennai Super Kings. Unfortunately, he’s now required back in England after the May 23 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
More Injury and Availability Woes for RCB
RCB is also facing other player availability challenges:
- Josh Hazlewood is recovering from a shoulder injury and is currently in Brisbane at CA’s High-Performance Centre. His participation is still uncertain.
- Lungi Ngidi has been ruled out of the playoffs and replaced by Zimbabwe’s Blessing Muzarabani.
RCB’s Current Position
RCB has had a great run in IPL 2025, winning 8 of their 11 league matches so far. Their final two games are:
- May 23 – vs Sunrisers Hyderabad in Lucknow
- May 27 – vs Lucknow Super Giants in Lucknow
They’re still aiming for a top-two finish and every game now is crucial.
Tim Seifert’s inclusion gives RCB an experienced T20 batter who can keep wickets and hit big. With Bethell leaving and uncertainties around Hazlewood and Ngidi, Seifert’s entry might just be the boost RCB needs for a strong finish in IPL 2025. Fans will be eager to see if he gets to play on May 27 and contribute in the playoffs.
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FAQs
Who is replacing Jacob Bethell at RCB?
New Zealand’s Tim Seifert is replacing Jacob Bethell as a temporary option.
When is Seifert available to play for RCB?
He can be picked from May 24 and will join the team by May 26 at the latest.
Why is Bethell leaving RCB?
He has to report for national duties with England after May 23.
Has Seifert played in the IPL before?
Yes, briefly for Delhi Capitals in 2022 and Kolkata Knight Riders in 2021.
What is RCB’s current position in IPL 2025?
They’ve won 8 out of 11 matches and are in strong contention for a top-two finish.
