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Young England player Jacob Bethell is benefiting from the Indian Premier League 2026, where he is currently in his second stint at Royal Challengers Bengaluru and is learning from the experienced pros and Virat Kohli at close range.

 

Bethell who announced his presence with a 105 off 48 balls in the T20 World Cup semi-final said that the IPL has made him become more adaptable at the higher standard of batting required at this level and has even registered a quick 55 off 33 balls versus Chennai Super Kings already in this edition. With the Royal Challengers looking strong, near the top of the table, he wants to play a more significant role for the side.

 

Learning from Kohli and the IPL experience

 

On speaking about Kohli, he was amazed to watch him bat.

 

Bethell said:

 

“Watching Virat chase, you understand the art of batting, how to control a chase and stay not out. It’s about shifting gears based on the situation."

 

He added that playing in the IPL, which allows just four overseas players in the playing XI can be difficult but is determined to work on his skills to seize every opportunity he is given.

 

Bethell added:

 

"I wanted to be better than last year. Whether you play a few games or many, it’s about hunger. This is the marquee tournament, if you don’t improve here, when will you?” he says. ‘’When I got to RCB first, I was curious about the experience. Watching Virat, Rajat (Patidar) and speaking to DK (Dinesh Karthik), I realised the game shifts here. It’s played at a high tempo; you have to be aggressive and brave."

 

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Journey, Fans and Coaching support

 

Bethell also described what it was like playing in front of the Indian supporters and the pressure that comes with it.

 

Bethell said:

 

"Walking out with Virat, hearing the crowd, it was loud. You have to stay completely switched on. People here love talking about cricket. It’s more hands-on with more information shared. The passion and volume of cricket at a young age is incredible.”

 

He also commended the RCB coaching staff for their support and guidance.

 

"Andy (Flower) observes and speaks only when needed; you listen when he does. DK is excellent at spotting things and identifying scoring areas quickly."

 

Andy Flower the RCB head coach is in no doubt about the abilities of Bethell:

 

"My first sight of Bethell was in the Under-19 World Cup, a very talented batsman with real flair. We targeted him straight away. He’s got a mature cricketing brain and won’t be cowed or bullied by anyone, which is a trait you see in top players."

 

He added:

 

"One of the key skills at this level is filtering information well, and he does that exceptionally. The IPL and RCB environment will stand him in really good stead, I expect great things from him. He’s ready not just to compete with the best, but to thrive in that company."

 

Bethell discussed his journey from Barbados, to England and on to the IPL.

 

"I grew up in Barbados, always with a bat and ball. Around 10–12, I started taking it seriously. I moved to England for school, progressed to Warwickshire and signed my first contract in 2021. A stress fracture set me back but I came back strong, earned an England call-up and then arrived in Bengaluru."

 

Talking about fame, he added:

 

"The limelight is a funny thing, life is still the same but when people want to watch you play, it’s a privilege. I don’t know how many people in India would be calling me starboy. It’s pretty incredible."