New Delhi: England’s young batsmen Jacob Bethel Inspired by one of the game’s modern greats, the Royal Challengers have been making the most of their time in Bengaluru, Virat Kohlias he continues to grow in stature during this time. IPL 2026.Bethel, who has stepped up in recent matches, highlighted the invaluable learning experience of sharing the dressing room with Kohli and other senior figures.
“Watching Virat’s chase, you understand the art of batting, how to control a chase and not get out. It’s about changing gears based on the situation,” Bethel said, giving a glimpse of the lessons he has absorbed in the high-pressure environment.The 22-year-old, who is currently in his second season with RCB, also spoke about adapting to the intensity of the Indian Premier League.“When I got to RCB, I was curious about the experience. Watching Virat, Rajat and talking to DK, I realized that the game changes here. It is played at a faster pace; you have to be aggressive and brave,” he added.A bigger role awaits in Salt’s absence.Bethel’s chances have been boosted by the absence of fellow England opener Phil Salt, who returned home for scans on a finger injury last month.According to ESPNcricinfo, Salt injured his left finger while attempting a diving stop during RCB’s clash against Delhi Capitals and returned to the UK at the request of the England management. While both the player and the franchise are hoping for a speedy recovery, his absence has opened the door for Bethel to solidify his place at the top of the order.Barbados to BengaluruReflecting on his journey, Bethel said, “I grew up in Barbados, always with bat and ball… 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… and then Bengaluru.”He also talked about handling the attention and the IPL spotlight. “The limelight is a funny thing… when people want to see you play, it’s an honor.”With RCB sitting second in the table and pushing for a play-off spot, Bethel’s continued development — and his lessons from Kohli — could prove crucial in the upcoming matches.
