At just 23 years old, Jacob Bethell has rapidly transitioned from a promising talent in England to a vital overseas spark for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. He stated that he learned the art of chasing from his teammate Virat Kohli. Currently in his second year with the franchise, the English all-rounder’s journey reflects patience and adaptation. After a stress fracture early in his career threatened his progress, Bethell bounced back to earn an England call-up and a coveted spot in the IPL. His presence in the squad brings a blend of young flair and English technicality, making him one of the most watched young overseas players in the 2026 season. He has stated that he has learned a lot from the RCB camp even though he was benched.

"When I got to RCB, I was curious about the experience. Watching Virat, Rajat, and speaking to DK, I realised the game shifts here. It's played at a high tempo; you have to be aggressive and brave; 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," said Jacob Bethell on learning from Virat. Players have admired Virat Kohli and his ability to chase over the years as the opposition team will know that their best chance while defending a total, would be to get rid of Virat Kohli. The kind of influence that Virat has as a batter is unparalleled with the kind of immense records he has to his name.

RCB fans tag Jacob Bethell ‘Starboy’ as Phil Salt’s absence paves way for the youngster

"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; 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; Walking out with Virat, hearing the crowd, it was loud. You have to stay completely switched on," stated Jacob Bethell on the RCB fans and Indian culture.

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru have always been fond of young talents and Jacob Bethell has a massive fanbase in India. His iconic century against India in the World Cup made RCB fans even more proud about the youngster. Earlier, RCB had acquired Finn Allen a couple of years back and the fans were waiting to see him get a chance with the bat, but it didn’t come. This time, they have welcomed the English starboy even more warmly and have constantly requested his inclusion in the side. Jacob Bethell is an obvious pick for any team’s starting squad in the IPL, but RCB were reluctant to make changes to their title-winning combination from 2025.

Andy Flower, the Head Coach of RCB was impressed with his batting in his U-19 World Cup performance and that’s where the franchise locked their eyes on the star. Jacob Bethell has the best opportunity at the moment with the injury of Phil Salt, to exhibit his batting prowess in the IPL. It will be difficult for RCB to accommodate him into the XI after the recovery of Phil Salt, but he can definitely make a strong case for himself. Jacob Bethell will feature in the game against the Lucknow Super Giants and he will be looking to make a huge impact in the game.