Virat Kohli and Jacob Bethell [Source: @Kohlified/X.com]
England's young prodigy, Jacob Bethell, has capped a remarkable breakthrough year by lifting the IPL trophy in his debut season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Bethell's year reached its pinnacle as RCB secured their maiden title. Although he missed the playoffs due to England duty, his impact was significant.
Jacob Bethell stepped in admirably for the unwell Phil Salt mid-tournament, impressing in two matches – notably scoring a rapid half-century and forging a 97-run opening stand with Virat Kohli against CSK.
Jacob Bethell On What He Learnt From Virat Kohli
Bethell's time in the RCB dressing room left a profound impression. Speaking to Sky Cricket, he highlighted the invaluable experience of sharing the field and learning from Kohli.
“It’s been great. [Virat] was unbelievable with helping me out, and even just the things he didn’t say to me personally, but just watching how he goes about training and how he approaches things,” Bethell said.
The young batter specifically marvelled at Kohli's mastery in run-chases from which he admitted learning a thing or two.
“Especially like chasing in a T20 game. That was unbelievable to watch and unbelievable to see first hand, just how easily he is able to shift up and down the gears and is able to template an innings depending on what is needed,” Bethell added.
Bethell, recognised as one of English cricket's brightest talents, has already delivered notable performances internationally, including a crucial 82 against West Indies on the day RCB won their IPL Qualifier 1.
As a key southpaw batting all-rounder, he is set to play a pivotal role at number three for England in the upcoming five-Test series against India, aiming to make a strong statement against Kohli-less India.