RCB Sign Tim Seifert as Temporary Replacement Amid Player Availability Concerns

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have brought in New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert as a temporary replacement for England’s Jacob Bethell, who is unavailable due to national commitments. Seifert, currently playing for Karachi Kings in the PSL, will be available for selection from May 24, depending on how far his team advances in the tournament. If Kings reach the PSL final on May 25, Seifert can only join RCB by May 26 in Lucknow — just a day before their final league game against Lucknow Super Giants.

Seifert has been in solid form in the PSL, opening the innings with David Warner and scoring 226 runs in nine matches at a strike rate of 145.80. He has previously played in the IPL for Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders.

Bethell impressed in his short stint, notably scoring 55 off 33 balls against Chennai Super Kings. However, he will depart after RCB's Friday fixture against Sunrisers Hyderabad, which has been moved from Bengaluru to Lucknow due to weather concerns.

RCB also face uncertainty over Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood’s fitness, as he recovers from a shoulder niggle ahead of the World Test Championship final. South African quick Lungi Ngidi will also miss the playoffs, with Zimbabwe's Blessing Muzarabani temporarily replacing him.

Despite the lineup disruptions, RCB are in strong form, having won 8 of their 11 league matches and are pushing for a top-two finish.

Catch the match live updates, highlights, and full match coverage on CricRadio. Get fast, accurate, and ad-free updates throughout the game. Download the CricRadio app from the Play Store to stay connected. You can also get the live scores of cricket series directly on the CricRadio website for real-time coverage.